Persistent Layers/Divs

Once you move away from table layouts and use layers/divs and CSS for positioning, it opens up a whole new world of possibilities. For example, one of the arguments put forth for the use of frames is that site navigation can be placed in a frame (usually to the left of the main content) and remain visible while the main content is scrolled. You don't need to use frames to have that capability; the same thing can be done using a persistent layer.

A persistent layer for web site development is not to be confused with a persistence layer for relational databases. A persistent layer is a layer that does not scroll with the rest of the page content, but stays in a fixed position in the browser window. There is a demonstration of a persistent layer here.

For those who use Dreamweaver, there are persistent layer extensions available. There is a free extension called "Persistent Layers" available from the Dreamweaver Exchange. The author of the free extension, Marja Ribbers-de Vroed, also has a commercial "Pro" version available from the DMX Zone. For those who don't use Dreamweaver, there are JavaScripts available. Do a web search for "persistent layer" or "persistent div".

 

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