Layers vs Tables

[rakennedy75]

Just curious on how many people out there use layers in basic html design. I personally have been using mostly just tables for laying out my page. Is there any major advantages that layers have over tables and/or disadvantages.

[design2odd]

In most cases you will always want to design using tables. My rule of thumb is "simple is better". Using layers creates an element of uncertainty when users view on old systems.

Layers are fun though, and dreamweaver sure does make it easy to use them.

-Skizzle

[rakennedy75]

Thanks for your reply, I read about them and the only flaw in layers is the old browser problem like you mentioned. I haven' really messed around with layers for that reason.

Question:
Using layers, is your page forced to be anchored to the top left side so that the layers keep their position. Or is there a way to center everything like you can with tables.

I have had consistent success using tables, so for the time being I will probably stick with them until I get a better understanding of the flaws/benefits sorrounding layers.

Thanks for the info, I appreciate you taking the time.

[design2odd]

Object placement with layers is pixel based. Like a coordinate system.

Play with layer location by creating a new layer and filling the bg color with some abstract green or something and just move it then test the page. If you have many browsers installed like I do for testing you may be able to see the difference.

In Dreamweaver there is a command for converting tables to layers and back again. It sort of works. I haven't found layers to be a necessity yet.

• Skizzle
  w00t