nonlayoutmanaged

Nonlayoutmanaged is a term used in software development to describe elements that are not governed by a layout manager or automatic layout system. In a graphical user interface or document rendering context, nonlayoutmanaged components rely on explicit positioning and sizing rather than being arranged by a framework that reflows content when the container or environment changes. This contrasts with layout-managed components, which are measured and placed by a layout algorithm.

Characteristics of nonlayoutmanaged components include fixed coordinates, widths, and heights that are set manually rather than derived from container rules. They do not automatically adjust on resize or content changes, which can lead to overlapping elements or gaps if the surrounding environment varies. This approach can simplify rendering for static, pixel-perfect sections but reduces flexibility for different screen sizes, fonts, or locales. It may also reduce the runtime overhead of layout computations in some scenarios.

Use cases for nonlayoutmanaged elements include overlays, canvases, game UIs, or legacy toolkits where precise control over positioning is required. However, the trade-offs include higher maintenance, poorer adaptability to diverse devices, and increased risk of visual inconsistencies when fonts, translations, or DPI settings change. Designers and developers typically limit nonlayoutmanaged usage to areas where automatic layout would degrade necessary precision.

See also: absolute positioning, layout manager, fixed layout, responsive design.