Pros and Cons of Grid for Web Design
Web optimization layouts these days are often designed with the use of a grid. The grid determines the margins of the page and guides the spacing between the elements on the page. Here is a summary of some advantages and disadvantages to using a grid for web design according to pro web designer Lilian Rigo:
PROS
1. Its consistency and organization helps users follow the layout easily
2. Streamlined layouts allow information to be easily accessed and retained
3. Visual unity and cohesiveness assists web developers
4. Achieves overall balance for text and visuals
5. Facilitates content updates
6. Highly flexible within a framework
7. Possibility of creating more complex grid systems
CONS
1. Stifles creativity of web designers
2. Boring, static designs
3. Locked out of particular design aesthetics
4. May stifle the design, arguably without flexibility for design elements
5. Creates visual clutter
6. Vertical dimensions can restrict visuals
Read the entire article on Grid Approach in Web Design by Lilian Rigo.