The idea of layout can be linked to the distribution of elements in a design.
Layout is a term from the English language that is not part of the dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE) . The concept can be translated as “disposition” or “plan” and has widespread use in the field of technology .
The notion of layout is usually used to name the distribution scheme of the elements within a design . It is common for a designer who is dedicated to creating web pages to develop a layout and present it to his client so that he can approve it and decide on the distribution of the content.
The layout as a template
The layout, in this sense, can be a type of template that presents tables or blank spaces. The idea is that, based on the layout, the web page begins to develop with its specific content. The layout can be composed, for example, of a rectangle as a header and three columns . Such a scheme is generic and can be used to develop multiple websites .
For example: the header may include the page heading (such as the name of a company or publication); in the left column, the sections of the site (Who we are, What we do, etc.); In the middle column the contents can be developed; The right column can be used for advertisements.
The presentation of a layout can be specified in different instances of a project.
Its use in the development of a project
The presentation of this layout to a client can be done at various stages of a project, from the first interview, when an agreement has not yet been reached, until the moment before finishing the work. The degree of complexity of the layout throughout this entire process is directly proportional to the percentage of work carried out: in the first contact it is usually done as a sketch while talking face to face with the interested party; Minutes before closing the design, it is expected that each element has been almost completely defined, with its shapes and colors already established.
Depending on the designer and their way of working, it is common for contracts to be signed that prevent the client from demanding changes once the design has been declared “closed.” It is important to keep in mind that creating a website or any other product where the main elements are graphics takes a lot of creative work; In the best of cases, the location of each object is based on a conscious decision, so an alteration at one point can affect the rest of the project.
It is common, in the Internet field, for free layouts to be offered and for users themselves to personalize them with their content. The designer only requires that his mention appear somewhere on the website, so that those who want a more complex development can contact him.
Layout as arrangement of elements
Layout is one of the many terms of English origin that have been implemented in other languages through programs and services, and this is very common in computing. Currently, since operating systems are usually graphical work environments (such as Windows, Ubuntu and Mac OS), programs and applications are displayed in windows, and their toolbars appear arranged in a certain way, which is usually configurable. ; This arrangement is also known as layout.
In another digital field, video games, the term layout is associated with the location of the elements of the graphic interface , in a similar way to the case of computer applications and programs. However, in video games it is not very common for users to have direct control over them, although it does occur in certain genres, especially on PC. One of the main benefits of giving players the ability to move around or hide parts of the interface is that it "cleans up" the screen of unnecessary components and allows you to appreciate more of the gaming experience itself.