Japan Layout Alliance Participation Guidelines

JLA is a “self-declaration type” framework that aims to clarify the compatible classes JLA-450 / JLA-425 (space bar length x stabilizer fulcrum span) of the Japanese layout bottom row as a shared language, and to promote the distribution of replacement parts and long-term support.

Individual product examinations are not conducted.

JLA is not an organization that operates an official standard or certification system, but a private voluntary framework for improving the compatibility of Japanese keyboards.

Participation in JLA and class designations such as “JLA-450” and “JLA-425” do not guarantee product quality or safety, and have no relationship to JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) or other official standards or certifications.

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JLA Participation Classification Information

The Japan Layout Alliance (JLA) has established the following three participation categories to facilitate participation by manufacturers and brands according to their own circumstances.

There is no obligation to change product specifications and there are no legal restrictions on participation; you are free to choose the most appropriate form of participation, provided that you agree with the JLA’s philosophy.

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Participation categories (3 types)

In the application form, you can select Founding / Participating / Review.

1. founding member

These are the categories that agree with the philosophy of the JLA and have pledged their participation at the time of the JLA’s creation (November 1-December 1, 2025).

The contents are the same as for the “Participation Category”.

Participating

This is a classification that refers to the JLA standards and cooperates in the posting of badges.

3.Review (Review Participation)

This is a lighter form of participation in which you first understand the activities and standards of the JLA, and then provide your opinions (reviews) as needed.

• I want to see how it goes first.
• I just want to participate in information sharing.
• I would like to consider this participation in the future
• The obligation for immediate reflection on the product side is burdensome.

This is ideal for brands such as

Even if you participate in a review, you will be listed as a “Review” category on the participating brands list page.

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Reference Source Provider

JLA has established a special category of ” Reference Source Provider” so that companies can use dimensional standards (e.g., JLA-450 / JLA-425) with confidence.

What is a Reference Reference Source?

Refers to companies that provide “actual dimensions and design information that serves as a basis for compatibility”, which is the foundation for referencing and using the dimensional standards indicated by the JLA.

JLA is responsible for creating the dimensions of the 4.5u/4.25u sizes that are distributed in Japan.

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Participation Steps (Shortest)

1. Submit the required information via the online application form (at the end of this page).
2. Greenkeys (adjustment contact) will contact you regarding publication approval and notation confirmation.
3. Registry listing (based on public agreement). Corrections will be made as needed.
4. The “JLA-450” and “JLA-425” notation and badge can be used on your company’s website/product page.

Requirements for Self-Declaration

• JLA-450: Approximately 4.5u space bar length x approximately 70mm stabilizer fulcrum span
• JLA-425: Approximately 4.25u space bar length x approximately 60mm stabilizer fulcrum span
• Internal mechanisms, materials, and fixing methods are not questioned (each company’s know-how). Only the “position of the fulcrum (dimensions)” is shared.
• Split spaces (e.g., 2.25u+2.25u, etc.) are not covered (separate category)—not discouraged, but not covered by this alliance.

Notation and Badge

• Class notation is JLA-450 / JLA-425 (both supported is JLA-450/425).
• Please follow the guidelines for badge usage.
• If possible, please link to the JLA page.
• Details will be provided in the badge guidelines.

Policy for Listing on the Participating Organizations Page

• Listing is optional. Inclusion on the ‘JLA Participating Organizations List’ page is granted only if permission is obtained through the application form.
• The listing includes five items: logo, brand name, participation status, JLA class, and official URL.
• The participation categories are Founding / Participating / Review.
• Immediate correction/non-disclosure is supported even after listing.

How to Join

Listing in the JLA-450/425 “List of Participating Organizations” will be made only after prior confirmation.

You can update or temporarily withdraw your information at any time by sending an email. The information will only be published in the list of participating organizations if prior permission has been obtained.
These Participation Guidelines and JLA-450 / JLA-425 are voluntary guidelines and have no legal binding force or effect as an official certification.

Selection of Participation Category

In the application form, you can select Founding / Participating / Review.

If you are not sure, you are welcome to start with Review, which is less burdensome.

If the form does not work, please contact us via Contact Us.

Japan Layout Alliance (JLA) is a private voluntary organization that is not affiliated with JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards), JISC, or any Japanese government agency, which are official standards. The guidelines shown on this page are only voluntary proposals to support the improvement of Japanese keyboard compatibility, and have no force or effect as an official certification.