#Japan #Data Science #Kyoto #Asmark #Insight Industry

Guest Lecture on Insight Industry and Data Science

On December 2, 2025, Kyoto Women’s University’s Faculty of Data Science hosted an insightful guest lecture entitled ‘Insight Industry and Data Science’. Masayuki Satomura from Asmark’s Research Solutions Department served as the keynote speaker, shedding light on the crucial intersection between marketing research and data science.

Overview of the Lecture

The event took place at the Higashiyama Campus of Kyoto Women’s University, as part of an advanced course titled ‘Introduction to Practical Data Science’. The lecture lasted about 90 minutes, with Satomura’s presentation spanning roughly 45 minutes, focusing on how data science techniques underpin effective decision-making in businesses.

Key Themes Addressed

In the first half of the lecture, Satomura elaborated on the role of marketing research in connecting companies with consumers. Through surveys and interviews, marketing research supports organizations in making informed decisions. He emphasized that the essence of this field lies in the ability to gather data, interpret it effectively, and communicate insights that guide strategies.

The latter part of the presentation shifted the focus to practical methodologies in data analysis, such as regression analysis, factor analysis, cluster analysis, and correspondence analysis. Satomura stressed the importance of not only interpreting results but also understanding the background context to leverage these findings into actionable strategies. He also noted how important it is to structure data in decision-making formats, touching on concepts like log design and KPI organization.

Student Reactions

After the lecture, several students shared their thoughts and impressions:

• - Many expressed renewed enthusiasm for their studies in statistical methods, realizing their practical applications in industry.
• - Others noted how essential it is to analyze not just data points but the narratives behind them, enhancing their understanding of market behaviors.
• - A remarkable observation was made regarding the gender ratio among employees; students were surprised to find a higher percentage of women than men in full-time positions, which highlighted the relevance of cluster analysis and factor analysis they were learning in class.
• - Some students appreciated how marketing research combines quantitative data with qualitative insights, deepening their understanding of consumer motivations.
• - Overall, the term ‘Insight Industry’ resonated with many attendees, who realized the significance of interpreting data in a way that supports sound business decisions.

Interview Insights

After the lecture, Professor Koji Kurihara, head of the Faculty of Data Science, shared his insights on the event:

• - He acknowledged how the collaboration between academia and industry enriched the student learning experience, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application.
• - Professor Kurihara expressed his hope that such engagements would catalyze students' understanding of how data science contributes to addressing real-world challenges.
• - He also emphasized the importance of inviting professionals like those from Asmark, as it allowed students to grasp the relevance of their studies in future marketing careers.

Company Overview

Asmark Co., Ltd. is based in Shibuya, Tokyo, and was founded in December 2001. It specializes in marketing research, connecting businesses with consumers through data-driven insights.

• - Contact Information: 03-5468-5101
• - Established: December 21, 2001
• - Capital: ¥ 151 million (as of November 2024)

As the landscape of data-driven marketing continues to evolve, such collaborations between educational institutions and industry players like Asmark promise invaluable learning opportunities for the next generation of data scientists.