YAML a HTML/CSS Template Builder

I was recently pointed in the direction of a very cool online app called YAML ("Yet Another Multicolumn Layout") Builder. It’s an online HTML template builder and I have to say it looks pretty good.

Now as I am working on a template builder myself I thought a good place to start would be by reviewing the YAML builder and to decipher the positives and negatives of the application. So here we go:

aesthetics

It has to be said the builder is very aesthetically pleasing with a simple yet satisfying design and very powerful interactive features allowing drag and drop components to help build the template as required.

level of detail

The level of detail at which you can manipulate your desired template is relatively high, however, if your looking to create a very complex template this builder is not for you. Allowing only 0, 2 or 3 column layouts can be quite restrictive although it does allow you to add “column sets” to each column to produce a more precise layout, however, this is not always practical.

The ability to add padded content boxes, content elements (such as h1, h2, p, line, ul) and column sets really enhances the template builders appeal and definitely offers novice template builders a firm foundation from which they can build.

The level at which column and site widths can be edited also works very nicely. The ability to set max and min widths, re-order columns and change the individual column widths add for a satisfying effect.

conclusion

It has to be said the YAML builder is well worth a look to see if it meets your needs. More complex layouts may be a bridge too far for this builder, but I believe with a little extra development this app could be formidable. It does have a very strong foundation, but I would like to see it support more columns and the integration of rows as well. Then there is always the prospect of equal height columns to take it in to the exceptional bracket.

A lot to think about when considering my own template builder, but I can definitely use this as a firm benchmark from which I can weigh my own efforts against.

update

I have just received an email from Dirk Jesse (YAML Builder Developer) and he added the following to my review with regards to the level of complexity:

"Check out the Subtemplates in the "Add Elements" section. These offer much higher flexibility (eg. columns and rows) and can be combined with the exisiting columns. You can also remove all columns and creatve your layout only with the subtemplates. They even can be nested. So, rather complex layouts are possible too."

Well I think that just about caps it off.  What an awesome app.  If anyone uses it let me know how you get on.