See the world through your customer's eyes.

Plannerzone is a network of thoughtful professionals that explores new ways to bring real-life experiences of consumers to light to create more insightful branding and messaging strategies.

We use the term "network" because we pull together some of most talented resources available to the art of marketing, branding, and communications strategy. We routinely draw from a broad group of strategists, psychologists, sociologists, creativity specialists, designers, qualitative and quantitative researchers, producers, and videographers to develop and report consumer insights that drive strategy.

How many times have you worked with a researcher who fails to understand your business needs?

For every job, we acquire the knowledge necessary to understand the business problem at hand. Our ability to quickly absorb business models and structures puts us in the best position lead an informed discussion with any customer or consumer. 

Can you recall a researcher who just could not make the personal connection with your customers? 

Our communications and listening skills create a unique opportunity for individuals to open-up and tell their stories. We know how to ask a question (and ask it again, if need be) to get to the real answer.

We know how to shut up and listen. We approach every project with a completely open mind. Everyone loves a good listener.

History and Background

Founded in 1993 by Earl Wilcox, Plannerzone draws upon a broad group of planners, qualitative, and quantitative researchers, psychologists, creativity specialists, producers, and videographers to develop consumer insights. In addition to standard research tools, we often use off-the-grid techniques that take behavioral exploration into the real world.
 
Plannerzone has worked with advertising agencies like J.W. Thompson, R/GA, Saatchi, BBDO, DDB, CDM, Wieden + Kennedy, Mother London, Digitas, and Ogilvy & Mather. 
 
Corporate clients have included Apple, Nike, Jordan, The New York Times, Toyota, Dell, Proctor & Gamble, Ameriprise, 3M, RBC, New York Life, Fidelity, Hasbro, NYSE, Merrill Lynch, Biogen Idec, United Healthcare, Guardian Insurance, and Aflac.
 
Plannerzone is an LLC registered in the state of California and located in sunny Santa Barbara.

Earl Wilcox

Earl started his career in advertising with a Wall Street Journal property. He later joined Martin Williams in Minneapolis. In 1986 he and three other young ad turks founded Lynch Jarvis Jones, one of the first agencies built on account planning principles. But that didn't last long.

​In 1993, he started what was to become Plannerzone, a research firm that provides clients with critical insights that inform their creative and strategic process. He has conducted work throughout the U.S., France, Canada, U.K., and Germany. Earl has a BA in English and Philosophy from the University of Minnesota and an MBA from the Carlson School of Management.