Comparing Three Types of Layouts for Multiple-Column Web Pages

This study investigated the three major methods of content presentation by empirically examining users’ objective and subjective performance for a typical multi-column website in both large and small window sizes. The three presentation methods were: fluid layout, fixed-centered layout, and a fixed, lift-justified layout. No significant differences between the layout conditions were detected in terms of search accuracy, time, or efficiency, but significant subjective differences were found that favored the fluid layout. Participants indicated they perceived the fluid layout as being the best suited for reading and finding information, as well as having a layout that is most appropriate for the screen size (for both small and large screens). They also indicated that the fluid layout looked the most professional, and consequently preferred it to the other layout conditions. Conversely, the left-j ustified layout was consistently the least preferred condition. Implications of these results are discussed.