Comprehensive Guide to LINE Construction: From Implementation to Result-Driven Operation

What is LINE Construction? A Business Model Using Official LINE Functions

Fundamentally, LINE construction is a system for selling products and attracting customers by utilizing the functions of an Official LINE account. It makes full use of features unique to LINE, such as message distribution, chat functions, rich menus, LINE VOOM posts, sales promotion features, LINE Call, and reports. Previously, marketing using flyers and email newsletters was mainstream. However, with the spread of SNS, platforms are shifting toward LINE. LINE construction is also a more effective business model than email newsletters. It boasts high open rates and is indispensable for achieving KPIs. Furthermore, because it's a chat tool frequently used in private life, it offers potential for reaching customers who couldn't be captured before.

Is the Charm of LINE Construction the Overwhelming Reach? LINE is Not Just a Message Tool

LINE is a messaging tool used by a wide range of generations, with over 90 million monthly active users. The ability to approach a vast majority using a familiar tool is a unique charm of LINE construction. LINE, which used to be just a private messaging tool, has now made business use standard. In particular, the automated messaging function within LINE has simplified customer support that used to be a heavy burden, and the demand for LINE construction is expected to grow every year.

The Open Rate for Official LINE is as High as Around 60%!

First, let's understand the calculation method for open rates.

Open Rate = Friends who opened ÷ Friends sent to × 100

The open rate can be found by dividing the "number of friends who opened" by the "number of friends sent to" and multiplying by 100.

For example, if you send a message to 10,000 people and 5,000 open it:

5,000 ÷ 10,000 × 100 = 50%

In other words, the open rate is 50%.

The open rate is extremely important in LINE construction, as it allows you to determine whether the information you sent is actually reaching customers. Also, depending on the content, it may make it easier for customers to purchase products or services. However, if the open rate is low, there's a high possibility that even high-quality products or services won't be appreciated.

So, what is the open rate for Official LINE? While there isn't one fixed rate, it is generally said to be around 60%. Considering that the open rate for email newsletters is said to be less than 30%, this is more than double.

What is the Difference Between Official LINE and Email Newsletters?

Official LINE is often compared to email newsletters, but there aren't massive differences; it's fine to recognize Official LINE as a sophisticated upgrade to email newsletters.

Email newsletters require an initial investment, and sending them in bulk using a PC is the standard method. Also, goals set by companies often take six months to a year to achieve.

On the other hand, Official LINE can be started for free, allowing for bulk and individual messaging from a smartphone. Not only can you reach a wider range than with email newsletters, but the ease of operation is also superior.

Official LINE Functions

Official LINE has basic functions beyond messaging, making it highly suitable for business use. Let's introduce the fundamental Official LINE functions.

• Broadcast Messages
• Personal Chat
• Rich Menus
• Step Messages (Automated Sequences)
• Auto-Response Messages
• LINE Call
• LINE VOOM
• Rich Messages
• Rich Video Messages
• Digital Shop Cards
• Coupons and Raffles
• Research (Surveys)
• Profile Page
• Analytics

What are Rich Menus?

A Rich Menu is the interactive menu displayed at the bottom of the Official LINE screen. Because it fills more than half of the area, it naturally increases click-through rates. Furthermore, since users can jump directly to websites or EC stores from buttons assigned to the menu, it's a recommended feature for businesses with multiple external links.

What are Rich Messages?

While similar in name to Rich Menus, Rich Messages allow you to attach images or videos when sending a direct message. This differs from the menu interface.

Items that are difficult to explain with text alone can be communicated more vividly by attaching visual content.

What are Step Messages?

Step Messages is a function that delivers pre-arranged messages based on specific user actions.

For example, it's a system that automatically distributes new product announcements or coupons one week or three weeks after someone registers as a friend.

By simply deciding on user actions, delivery timing, and content, the system handles sales automation for you. Using Step Messages ensuring that the Official LINE account isn't forgotten by the audience.

What are Data Analytics Functions?

The analytics function for Official LINE accounts allows you to view information about the account.

Examples include:

• Dashboard
• Friends
• Profile
• Message Volume
• Messages Sent
• Step Messages
• Chat
• LINE VOOM
• Rich Menu

These data can be analyzed using percentages, week-over-week comparisons, or month-over-week comparisons.

Friends Analytics

Friend analysis is categorized into three types: Overview, Attributes, and Addition Route.

"Overview" reveals the number of new friends, target reach, and even the number of people who have blocked you. While only one week's worth of data is shown as a graph, you can trace data back up to 397 days.

"Attributes" provides data on the gender, age, and region of friends. Ages aren't pinpointed but grouped into brackets (e.g., 30–34 years old), and regions are analyzed down to the prefecture level. Since attribute data reflection takes some time, it generally updates after a few days.

"Addition Route" allows you to check where users registered as friends or where they initiated a block.

Message Delivery Analytics

In message delivery analytics, you can analyze open counts, impression counts, and even click counts for sent messages. Furthermore, if you need more detailed data, jumping to the detail screen allows you to see open counts and impressions in chronological sequence. You can see specific times and periods when content was opened. However, since you can only view data for 14 days post-delivery, separate recording is required.

Step Message Analytics

In Step Message analytics, you can analyze the number of messages sent and impressions. For example, you can sort by information like age or gender, but be aware that data reflection takes about a day and there may be discrepancies compared to real-time detailed data.

Differences Between Paid and Free Official LINE Plans

While you can create an Official LINE account for free, it has several limitations compared to paid plans.

For example, in the free plan, you can send up to 1,000 messages per month, whereas paid plans allow up to 45,000 messages per month. Paid plans include "Light" and "Standard" tiers, which you can choose depending on the scale of your distribution.

What Can You Do with LINE Construction?

Let's introduce what can be done with LINE construction across various categories.

• Messaging Functions

Send text messages, stickers, and emojis, as well as share images and videos.

• LINE Business Connect

↳ Messaging service for companies

↳ Customer support and inquiry processing

LINE Business Connect is a service that links a company's systems with LINE, specifically enabling one-on-one communication between users and the company. Previously limited to corporate accounts, it's now available to anyone.

• LINE Pay

Enables online and offline payments, as well as sending and receiving money.

• LINE Clova

A voice assistant using Natural Language Processing. Similar to Apple's Siri, it can handle automated transcription and more.

• LINE App Integration

↳ Integration with other apps and services

↳ Retrieving information such as calendars, To-Do lists, and weather forecasts.

• Creating Bots that Run on LINE

↳ Customer support, information provision, and reservation management.

Bots Available for Official LINE Accounts

There are two types of bots available for Official LINE accounts: "Auto-Response Messages" and "Chatbots."

• Auto-Response Messages

Official LINE includes a bot called Auto-Response Messages. By having users input pre-determined words, the system replies automatically. However, standard Auto-Response can only handle Q&A level answers. If higher flexibility is required, use the "AI Auto-Response Messages." Here, AI selects the most appropriate reply from several patterns according to the content. Use AI Auto-Response for anticipated simple questions.

• Chatbots

Chatbots using the Messaging API can be integrated into the Official LINE account. However, since this isn't a native LINE feature, you must link the chatbot with the Official account. If implemented correctly, it streamlines operations by removing the need to spend time on manual customer support and messaging.

Demerits and Risks Hidden in LINE Construction

While LINE construction dramatically grows businesses and provides various benefits, you must also look at its demerits and risks.

The environment is cluttered with many tools and outsourcing services for LINE construction, making it difficult to decide on the best combination for a business. Also, since the effects of LINE construction can't be felt unless people register as friends, it's not recommended for services targeting demographics that don't use LINE. On the other hand, demographics accustomed to LINE may block an account for small mistakes or if they find it annoying. Mastering various functions with the right balance is required.

Checks to Perform Before Considering LINE Construction

The results of LINE construction vary depending on how meticulously planning and goals are handled beforehand. Here, we introduce three check items to perform before considering LINE construction.

Check 1: Situation Analysis

First, distinguish between "cumulative data" and "recent data" for the target business. If this data isn't on hand, start collecting data before initiating LINE construction. Organize the revenue model based on cumulative data and current trends. Ask if the "number of customers" and "average transaction value" are sufficient, and identify any issues in the business model.

Check 2: Linking KPIs with LINE Construction

Issues will come to light through analysis. In this manner, ensure that established KPIs and future business developments can be resolved through LINE construction. Methods vary, such as enriching the Rich Menu to promote specific products or implementing survey functions to collect more detailed customer data.

Check 3: Cost Simulation

Unlike online advertising, the costs for LINE construction are relatively small, but they must be considered carefully depending on business scale. Simulating the conversion rate and revenue from LINE against the implementation and monthly costs is critical. If you wish to further automate LINE construction, utilizing extensions provided by external companies is also a good idea.

How to Do LINE Construction? Tips for Launching and Operating Official LINE

While "LINE Construction" may sound difficult, it's essentially the launch and operation of an Official LINE account. Simply launching an account won't matter if you don't get friend registrations. Even with friends, if the account isn't appearing attractive, there's a strong possibility of being blocked. Here, we introduce points for launching and operating Official LINE.

LINE Construction (Launching Official LINE) 5-Step Guide for Free Setup

Let's start with the launch of the Official LINE account.

Step 1: Access the Official Website

Access the LINE Official Account service page ("LINE for Business"). (https://www.lycbiz.com/jp/service/line-official-account/). Accounts can be Unverified or Verified. Furthermore, Verified accounts acknowledged as particularly high-quality can become Premium accounts.

Step 2: Register a "LINE Business ID"

After jumping to the LINE Business ID screen, click "Create Account" at the bottom. Register using either a personal LINE account or an email address.

Step 3: Create an Official LINE Account

Once registered, you'll enter the management screen called "LINE Official Account Manager." Press the create button.

Step 4: Register Company/Business Information

There are two ways to register: linking with a personal account or inputting required information with an email address. If multiple people will handle the account, using an email registration is recommended to avoid compromising personal privacy.

Step 5: Log in to the Management Screen (LINE Official Account Manager)

Once logged in, the launch is complete. However, the account will initially be Unverified. Be sure to upgrade to a Verified account to increase trust.

LINE Construction (Operation Prep) in 4 Steps!

Next are essential preparations before operation. Even small adjustments here can significantly boost sales and customer attraction.

Step 1: Register Basic Information

Register items including Account Name, Status Message, Profile Image, Search Visibility, Location, and settings for chat participation and media reception. Though they might seem minor, each item influences the account's impression.

Step 2: Profile Message Settings

Information like business hours should be written here. Furthermore, set an "Auto-Greeting Message" for when a user first registers. Prepare an attractive message including thanks and campaign offers.

Step 3: Test Delivery

Create a temporary message and test distribution to your own account to ensure everything is delivering correctly.

Step 4: Publish Account

If the test works, move to publication. For Verified accounts, use QR codes in various locations to attract registrations.

Points for Operating Official LINE

Results won't improve just by launching. Keep these points in mind while focusing on KPIs.

Point 1: Increase Friends

Dedicated effort to increase friends is crucial since messages only reach registered users. Use QR codes on websites and in-store. Coupons for registering can help maintain an active user base and prevent blocks.

Point 2: Secure Customer Engagement

Since LINE is part of daily life, it allows customers to buy easily and enhances satisfaction. Delivering exclusive information like "Friend-only campaigns" can secure high engagement.

Point 3: Customer Data Analysis

Utilize analytics to see if user needs match supply and repeat analysis often for continuous feedback.

Point 4: Avoid Text-Only Messages

Replacing text with images can greatly boost engagement. Using catchier designs for Rich Menus is also effective.

Point 5: Delivery Frequency (1–2 times per week)

Delivering too often leads to blocks, while too little leads to being forgotten. 1–2 times per week is generally appropriate.

Is LINE Construction Easy?

While launching is easy, operating isn't. Minimum requirements include clearly stated objectives, KPIs, and an operation structure. If it feels difficult, external tools can help. Here are 6 recommended tools.

Recommended External Tools for LINE Construction

1. Tomira CRM/MA (https://tomira.co.jp/marketing/crm/)

Tomira provides CRM/MA tools suitable for LINE and other SNS. They handle database management, segmentation, and real-time updates of purchase history. They offer optimal proposals based on expected sales versus cost.

Tomira CRM Implementation & Operation Agency

2. PRISM for LINE (Personalized Video Solution - No. 1 Share "PRISM" (pr-ism.jp))

PRISM for LINE is an external tool that enables the provision and analysis of optimized videos for each registered friend on an Official LINE account. While personalized video services existed previously, they faced issues such as high costs, manual effort, and an inability to obtain video log data. PRISM for LINE resolves these challenges.

3. KAKERU (KAKERU | Solve any issues related to customer attraction and sales by combining functions with Official LINE! (x-kakeru.com))

This external tool contributes to customer attraction and sales growth by combining various functions. It includes features like announcements for events and schedule reservation functions to increase event attendance, as well as centralized management and segmentation of registered friends. It's effective for businesses facing multiple challenges.

4. L-Step (L-Step | Marketing Tool Specialized for Official LINE Accounts (linestep.jp))

L-Step was recognized with 6 titles for two consecutive years in surveys by the Japan Marketing Research Organization. It allows you to send surveys immediately after a user registers as a friend, record responses, and deliver customized messages to each participant. Note that the service provider is different from the official LINE provider to avoid confusion.

5. Subscline (0 Enrollment Cost; If gaining stock-type fixed income with LINE, 'Subscline' (subscline.com))

Subscline enables stock-type fixed income through subscriptions on LINE. It can be started with zero risk from 0 yen initial/monthly costs, operating on a complete performance-based incentive model. It's recommended for those who want to start LINE construction or LINE subscriptions immediately. Furthermore, it features AI chat customer service for automated responses, ensuring prompt handling of issues.

6. DECA for LINE (DECA for LINE | Total Support Service for LINE Marketing (https://deca.marketing/service/cloud/line/))

DECA for LINE is an extension focused on friend acquisition. As a LINE Certified Partner, they offer a rich menu of friend acquisition strategies, including website pop-ups and Point Connect. Furthermore, it enables distribution leveraging web and external DB data, such as sending fixed application offers to those who requested materials or sequence messaging to product purchasers.

From Consultation to Wide-Ranging Support: On LINE Construction Outsourcing

LINE construction outsourcing is a service where specialists are commissioned to launch and operate Official LINE accounts for companies or individuals like influencers. Some provide robust consulting from KPI setting to target analysis. Consider active outsourcing where appropriate.

When selecting a provider, use "service range," "industry specialization," and "cost" as criteria.

What are the Main Services of LINE Construction Outsourcing?

Services generally fall into three types: "Basic Setup," "Marketing Support," and "Data Analysis and Post-Consultation."

• Basic Setup

Support for essential settings including Account Name, Status Message, and Profile Image creation.

• Marketing Support

Support for limited-time events and marketing leveraging Official LINE, including integration with other SNS and directing traffic to EC sites.

• Data Analysis and Post-Consultation

Categorizing information registered on Official LINE to collect and analyze customer data, used as material for future business development and more effective marketing.

Scope of LINE Construction Outsourcing Services

Scopes vary from initial planning consultation prior to account construction to proposing improvements post-launch. For overall support, look for providers using the keyword "Collaborative Consulting." For partial commissioning, look for providers with a wide range of plans.

Targets of LINE Construction Outsourcing

Some providers specialize in food and beverages or large-scale enterprises. If you want construction tailored to your company's scale or wish to win intense competition in your industry, look for providers with a more narrowed target audience.

Market Rates for LINE Construction Outsourcing

Generally, individual contractors are cheaper than agencies. Individuals typically range from several tens of thousands to around 200,000 yen. However, for those with extensive track records, quotes of 500,000 yen or more are common. Agencies generally range from 100,000 up to 1,000,000 yen or more, but provide guaranteed quality and peace of mind.

Recommended LINE Construction Outsourcing Providers

If construction is difficult internally or high quality cannot be achieved, hiring a provider often offers better cost-performance. Here are 5 recommended providers.

1. Tomira Inc. (Official LINE (CRM) Construction, Implementation Support, and Operation Outsourcing | Tomira) (https://sikiapi.com/)

Tomira Inc. provides end-to-end support from initial introduction and construction to operation and analysis. Their wide scope includes profile pages, Rich Menus, auto-greetings, tag settings, URL click measurement, and addition route analysis. They specialize in Official LINE operation and customer management, offering high-precision commitment compared to competitors.

2. Members Co., Ltd. (https://www.members.co.jp/services/smm/)

Members Co., Ltd. handles everything from launch preparation and daily operations to future expansion proposals through its "Social Media Operation Outsourcing Support." With a team of approximately 50 members, they can tackle various industries. Their experience with over 100 cases provides confidence for those commissioning their services.

3. Sogo Orikomi Co. (https://www.sogo-orikomi.co.jp/line/)

Starting with flyer distribution, Sogo Orikomi has spent 40 years focused on sales promotion for the retail industry, primarily supermarkets and home centers. They provide support leveraging that expertise. They are also an official LINE account agency recognized by LINE Pay, making them a safe choice.

4. ZEUS Co., Ltd. (https://www.cardservice.co.jp/pro/lineat/)

With over 25 years in payment processing, ZEUS also offers LINE operation outsourcing. They support initial setup, screening assistance, and operation consulting. Their 24-hour manned call center ensures robust technical support via phone and email.

5. assist Co., Ltd. (https://ab-assist.co.jp/line/#feature)

An official LINE Sales Partner with over 1,000 implemented accounts, assist Co., Ltd. offers accessible plans starting from 2,980 yen per month for the self-course. Businesses can scale through Basic, Light, and Premium tiers as their friend count grows. Results are clearly visible on their website for easy alignment.

6. In-Line (https://in-line.jp/line/)

In-Line performs effective operations using extensive track records, providing distribution outsourcing, phone/email support, and friend acquisition know-how. Rates are reasonable at around 3,000 yen per broadcast with the first three months free. They also provide consulting for those new to LINE construction.

Can You Earn Money with LINE Construction as a Side Hustle?

Since most Japanese use LINE as a chat tool, its effectiveness often surpasses email newsletters. This has created high demand for talent. While attractive as a side job, it requires specialized knowledge and tool mastery. Those with results can expect good earnings, while beginners should evaluate their potential based on industry examples.

Considering a LINE Construction School

For those starting a side job or wanting to increase their rates, specialized schools are a great option. Curriculums focus on "basic Official LINE operation," "account design," and "acquisition methods." More schools are expected, but accessible options include Daytra and LINE Campus.

1. Daytra LINE Construction Course (https://www.daily-trial.com/line)

This course offers a year of unlimited questions at an affordable rate. It covers Official LINE and L-Step construction/operation. Learning is hands-on through assignments for each feature, covering diverse areas like restaurants, gyms, and recruitment.

2. LINE Campus (https://campus.line.biz/)

Everything from training to certification is free at LINE Campus. Obtaining LINE-certified qualifications adds value. Lessons usually take around 15–30 minutes through integrated video and text tutorials.

Success Stories of LINE Construction

What are the benefits of success? Here are two cases where outsourcing made a difference.

Case 1: Apparel Industry A

An apparel business with low repeat rates used outsourcing for LINE Login implementation, personalized messaging, and cross-SNS traffic. This optimized distribution channels and boosted open rates.

Case 2: Retail Business B

Retailer B, once reliant on flyers, succeeded by hiring a specialized provider for friend acquisition and content creation. This resulted in successful and measurable friend registrations post-launch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I create multiple Official LINE accounts?

Up to 100 accounts can be created per Business ID, which is perfect for separate stores. Bulk management makes handling these easy.

Q2: How do I manage administrators?

Login with admin rights and use [Settings] > [Permission Management] to add members via issued URLs or change permissions for existing members.

Q3: Is the screening for a Verified account necessary?

Verified accounts receive a blue badge and better search visibility. We recommend it unless you prefer a private community.

Q4: I deleted my account, but it's not gone.

Accounts remain in a partial state for 30 days after deletion attempts, allowing limited analytic access. After 30 days, data is completely and permanently erased.

Summary

In this article, we covered LINE construction. It represents a blue-ocean for freelancers and a critical marketing measure for companies. Use this guide to achieve business success with your LINE presence.

sikiapi

sikiapi is a tool for SNS

sikiapi is a CRM/MA (Marketing Automation Tool) centered on chatbot services, with its greatest feature being the ability to automate marketing. There are various types of marketing, such as advertisements, publicity, publications, train strap ads, and mass media like television and newspapers, but sikiapi's strength lies in SNS.
By using sikiapi, you can efficiently carry out customer response and marketing activities on LINE and Instagram. Furthermore, it can be used with only click operations, allowing even those Who are not engineers to intuitively implement highly effective measures.

What you can do with sikiapi

1. Scenario Distribution

The first feature of sikiapi to mention is its unique "Scenario Distribution" function. This feature allows you to continuously distribute multiple pre-registered text snippets or images, enabling the delivery of appropriate messages based on user behavior and reactions.

By selecting message templates from the scenario creation screen, you can easily create scenario distribution flows with only click operations.
Scenario distribution enables the following types of delivery:

• Distribute limited coupons and discount information to new followers
• Deliver recommended product information based on user behavior and interests
• Distribute guidance such as reviews and case studies

2. Segmented Distribution

It is possible to deliver messages tailored to user attributes such as age, gender, and purchase status. By implementing an appropriate approach for each person, response rates are improved.

3. Issue Unique sikiapi ID and Password

Because unique sikiapi IDs and passwords are issued, there is no need to share LINE or Instagram account credentials with operators, ensuring security in usage.

4. Other SNS Integration (LINE/Instagram Direct)

User actions and history can be shared between LINE and Instagram, reducing management effort and avoiding duplicate message distribution, enabling actions best suited for the user.

Other features include automated response functions, form functions, automatic user information reflection (not possible with standard LINE or Instagram features), and dashboard analysis functions.
If you want to improve the efficiency of your SNS operations and achieve more results, please utilize sikiapi. For questions regarding implementation or detailed information, please feel free to contact us.