Semiotics & Cultural Strategy

Overview
A training program in semiotics and cultural strategy, designed to equip participants with powerful tools for brand strategy, creative development, and future-focused cultural insight.
Learning Objectives
Master the fundamental principles of semiotics and its role in cultural strategy
Understand the relationship between cultural understanding and brand strategy
Learn to apply the residual-dominant-emergent code trajectory
Develop proficiency in creating and utilizing semiotic squares
Bridge the gap between semiotics and design
Translate cultural insights into actionable creative directions
Develop effective creative briefs using shared semiotic language
Explore cutting-edge applications of cultural analysis
Understand the intersection of AI and cultural analytics
Reflect on how the methodology has evolved and what's next
Schedule Overview
Day 1
Decoding: Foundations of Semiotics & Cultural Strategy
Introduction to Semiotics
Core principles and methodology
Application in brand strategy
Integration with traditional consumer research
Cultural Code Analysis
Understanding code trajectories
Identifying emerging cultural codes
Criteria for Effective code analysis
Practical application of cultural insights
The Semiotic Square
Theoretical foundation and strategic value
Practical application to concepts like beauty, masculinity, and freshness
Case study analysis
Strategic Applications
Brand positioning
Global scaling strategies
Brand edge definition
Enhanced consumer research techniques
Day 2
Recoding: Creative Strategy & Design
Creative Strategy Framework
Integration of semiotics in design thinking
Application to packaging design
Experience design principles
Communication development
Practical Applications
Creating opportunity territories
Developing creative briefs
Building shared language between clients and agencies
Case study analysis and discussion
Day 3
Future Applications & Emerging Methodologies
Hour 1
AI and Cultural Analytics
Emerging Methodological Approaches
Innovating methodologically
Hour 2
Guest Speaker Presentation
Q&A and Discussion
Building shared language between clients and agencies
Case study analysis and discussion
Who should attend?
Esteemed insights professionals from market research agencies and clients, along with marketing and business development experts, are eagerly collaborating to drive impactful outcomes.
What is ESOMAR Academy?
This exclusive virtual training provides six hours of in-depth content across three engaging live sessions, offering an extended exploration of the subject. Designed for flexibility, you'll have access to helpful resources, the trainer’s contact information for ongoing support, and the opportunity to earn a certificate upon completion. Plus, the entire training will be available on-demand for up to 12 months, allowing you to revisit and refresh your knowledge at your convenience.
This course spans three days at two hours per day. What time is 13:00 UTC for me?
Speakers
Gareth Lewis
Co-Managing Director at Space DoctorsGareth is a cultural strategist and consultant with 15+ years of experience helping brands and organizations tackle strategic challenges and gain a competitive edge through semiotics, cultural insight, foresight, and analytics. As an expert in cultural strategy, he leads the MRS Advanced Semiotics Masterclass and has delivered training for ESOMAR and various global clients and agencies.
In 2016, Gareth established Space Doctors’ Singapore office, successfully growing the business and advancing cultural insight across APAC. He later returned to the UK to apply this experience in a global role.
Passionate about mentorship and team development, Gareth focuses on nurturing talent and fostering growth within his teams. He holds a BA in English Literature and Philosophy (First Class) from the University of Leeds and an MSc in Sociology and Cultural Theory (Distinction) from LSE.