the company struggled with achieving high rankings in search results for targeted keywords and generating quality inquiries. In response to these challenges, they collaborated with Willgate Co., Ltd. to integrate the AIO (AI Optimization) and SEO tool 'TACT SEO' along with comprehensive SEO and AIO consulting services.
The Challenges Before Implementation
Depaato launched the 'DepaatoBLOG' in 2021 while renewing their company branding with the aim of enhancing recruitment efforts. Initially relying on both in-house and external writers, they managed to increase their content output to about ten articles a month starting in 2023, which positively impacted their traffic. However, three significant challenges emerged:
1.
Low Ranking on Targeted Keywords: Despite the increase in content volume, the company struggled to secure high rankings for its chosen keywords.
2.
Significant Quality Inquiry Gap: They were unable to generate sufficient high-quality inquiries through their owned media strategies.
3.
Lack of Comprehensive SEO Strategy: It became evident that managing KPI metrics and determining effective measures proved challenging without external consulting help.
Implemented Strategies
With support from Willgate, Depaato embarked on a phased strategy beginning in February 2025. The implementation process encompassed several key steps:
1.
Target Keyword Selection and Unified Writing Guidelines: In the early stages, Depaato determined target keywords and associated optimized pages. They established unified internal writing guidelines, including best practices for incorporating keywords effectively in titles.
2.
Monthly Articles Production using TACT SEO: The first year focused on enhancing the website's health, employing a three-member team to produce new articles and update existing ones, with a goal of maintaining a production pace of ten articles monthly. The team received proactive customer success training in using TACT SEO, allowing them to swiftly manage writing, ranking monitoring, and overall SEO strategies without relying on external agencies.
3.
AI Optimization Measures: As of February 2026, Depaato set a goal to increase their exposure in AI platforms. This involved creating and revising columns while implementing new TACT SEO features like 'supervisor information,' 'FAQ sections,' and 'key takeaways' on their pages. This structural adjustment aimed to make their content more accessible for AI references.
Results Achieved
Approximately one year post-implementation, Depaato succeeded in acquiring over ten high-quality leads each month and reached first place in search rankings for keywords including 'Web Development Process,' 'Website Maintenance,' and 'Web System Design.' Furthermore, they also gained recognition from AI platforms such as AI Mode, AI Overviews, and Gemini.
Quantitative Outcomes
The implemented strategies began yielding results within 2-3 months. By comparing metrics from February 2025 prior to the implementation to August 2026, the overall user traffic increased by 20%, while new users rose by approximately 10%. This outcome resulted in achieving their goal of more than ten monthly leads, far exceeding results from paid advertising that averaged only three leads a month.
Qualitative Outcomes
Transitioning from dependence on external writer support allowed the Depaato team to manage article creation and ranking oversight internally. With the newfound capability using TACT SEO, they can efficiently draft articles, dedicating more time to refine content quality.
Additionally, the insights gained from SEO and AIO strategies have permeated beyond the assigned department, fostering a culture of awareness firm-wide. Depaato created an 'SEO Dictionary' accessible to all employees and initiated internal training sessions, improving understanding and collaboration within their teams.
Voices from Depaato's Team
Both the COO and Technical Director of Depaato expressed their satisfaction with the results. Misamas Misa, the COO, noted, 'The most significant achievement has been consistently securing high-quality leads monthly, exceeding our initial targets. The cost-effectiveness of these leads compared to traditional listings is remarkable.' On the technical side, Yuuji Itahana, the Technical Director, emphasized the efficiency gained in producing and managing content internally, praising TACT SEO for enabling their swift responsiveness to evolving market demands.
Future Outlook
Depaato plans to sustain their SEO and AIO initiatives moving forward, focusing on leveraging supervisor information to enhance brand visibility and attract user interest. By optimizing their owned media, they aim to drive lead acquisition while boosting employee recruitment efforts.
About Depaato Co., Ltd.
Depaato Co., Ltd. specializes in providing one-stop solutions from planning and strategy to design and system maintenance. The company prides itself on addressing core issues through tailored brand strategies and actively engages in information dissemination through their 'DepaatoBLOG.'
Company Overview
- - Company Name: Depaato Co., Ltd.
- - Location: Minato City, Tokyo, Japan
- - Establishment: June 22, 2015
- - CEO: Takayuki Higashi
- - Business Areas: Website planning, branding, website development, management, and UX design.
- - Website: depart-inc.com
- - Portfolio: depart-inc.com/works