Size and format can range from pocket to wall size, in both two and three dimensions. When designing for the Web or multimedia, where the overall maximum area is predetermined, consideration of the page proportions should still be given.
In almost every design context, the graphic designer will need to set up an appropriate page or design area structure (see above). This is normally done in a page layout program, and it- initially involves making a series of interrelated design decisions: width of the top, foot, and side margins {essentially there for handling purposes and for leading the eye), the number of columns for text and image organization and, where appropriate, the number of pages or surfaces that may be involved. Once these decisions have been made, the page structure can be set up as single or facing pages in templates (or master pages in desktop publishing programs) to allow automatic repetition of the original structure across numerous pages.
Multipage surface design benefits from adding a further underpinning structure or grid to the basic page. This is done by subdividing the basic page struct11re into sets and subsets of equal vertical column widths. The greater the number of divisions or columns, the greater the flexibility. The modularity that is created can be used invisibly to structure the relationship of quite disparate elements, with some running across several or all of the columns. If the complexity of the
job requires additional underpinning, a horizontal grid can be constructed in a similar way. A grid system can be particularly useful in helping to keep a sense of continuity across a range of different pages, sizes, scales, or formats. Corporate identities, exhibitions, advertising campaigns, and multimedia can all benefit from the controlling influence of a grid system.
Diagonal layouts can be very powerful but need to be kept simple as they may hinder the reader if too many elements are involved