Using Page Layouts

Layouts are different than templates in that they do not have any graphics. A layout will replace a template, it is essentially a blank template.

You can only chose a layout or template. They do not work together, but they are named differently so you know they are not the same.

Layouts allow you to set the basic page design. Such as having the menu at the right or left of the page, having a title space.

Layouts give the average user a blank page to build on. You can choose all the colors, your own background or page colors. You can add your own logo or title without buiding a complete custom template.

To chose one of the layouts from the management console

> Click on Page Properties
> Click on Change Page Layout

You will see a series of images and descriptions that explain how each of the choices will set up your page.

This particular layout shows you that the layout is centered in the page with the main menu at the top. It also allows you to upload a titlespace that will appear on each page. That titlespace can be modified with your logo or business name giving your website a uniform look. Each layout will have a different look and feel, but each allows you to use your own colors and background to get a design that fits your business theme.

Templates require that you know how to modify graphics to add your logo or modify the look of the template. While the layouts give you a cleaner starting point and you don't need to understand how to build graphic images to get the look you are after.

You can change the layout at any time without damaging the website. This gives you design flexibility even after building hundreds of pages on your website.

The best part about the layout and template system is that you can change back and forth between templates and layouts. As you become more design savvy you can easily change to a template or upgrade the design of the layout.