In the second installment of our Meet the Experts Series, we'll be speaking to survey expert Brian Sowers.
Tell us a little bit about your role at Applied Marketing Science.
I am a principal and lead the firm’s Litigation Support practice. In this role, I am responsible for the delivery of survey research and other marketing science initiatives to support expert testimony in civil cases. I manage the referrals and support of affiliated academic experts in matters where consumer opinions and behaviors are an important determinant of liability and damages.
And you also serve as a consumer survey expert?
Yes, I have served as a testifying expert in Federal and State Courts on matters related to trademark and trade dress infringement, class action matters, and false and deceptive advertising for both plaintiffs and defendants. In this role, I design consumer surveys, analyze the data, submit expert reports and provide expert testimony at deposition and trial. I am also frequently retained to provide critiques of opposing expert reports and to provide guidance on the deposition and trial questioning of opposing expert witnesses.
How long have you worked in the field of market research?
It’s hard to believe, but I’ve worked in the market research for almost 25 years. I’ve held a variety of research positions on both the client side and the consulting side. Prior to joining AMS, I was a senior project manager at the Forbes Consulting Group, where I helped clients identify new marketplace opportunities, develop communication and positioning strategies, measure brand equity and increase customer satisfaction and retention. I have also held research positions with Lockheed Martin, MCI WorldCom and Marketing Analysts Inc.
How many surveys have you personally designed and conducted in that time?
Upwards of one thousand, maybe more.
Are you a member of any professional organizations?
I am a member of the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the Institute for Operations Research and Management Science (INFORMS). I also currently serve on the Impact Studies Committee of the International Trademark Association (INTA).
What is your academic background?
I hold a BA in History from Roanoke College and an MBA from the University of Colorado.
Do you have more questions for Brian? Are you interested in learning more about trademark and trade dress infringement, class action matters, or false and deceptive advertising for both plaintiffs and defendants?