Flex Layouts

Flex layout pages provide structured flexibility to templated layouts. These allow local teams to adjust layouts according to article needs while maintaining structural integrity. (Available to Editors May 1st, 2025)

Flex Layouts Training Video

Purpose of Flex Layout Pages

• Designed to overcome layout limitations.
• Use to adjust word count and photo orientation.
• Various word count and photo orientation options.
• Pages with sidebars and a recipe page for flexible integration.

How to Request Flex Layouts in ARC

1. Flex layouts are in ARC under Training & Documents > Editorial > Layouts & Style Guide.
   • (These are not selectable in the dropdown under the Content Tab when choosing a recipe layout.)
   • The flex layouts will be labeled “Flex Page 1”, etc., and include photo specifications and word count requirements.
2. Select a recipe layout in ARC.
3. Enter the article details as usual.
4. Specify the desired total page count, including flex pages.
5. Use the Production Notes to request flex pages:
   • Example: “Please use flex pages 1 and 3 for pages 5 and 6 of this layout.”
   • Provide the exact page order and new word count if reordering layout pages.
6. Manually calculate the updated word count and include it in the Production Notes.
   • ARC will not recalculate it.

Restrictions on Flex Layout Pages

• The title page cannot be replaced with a flex page.
• Maximum of two flex pages per layout.
• No customizations are allowed except for background color (if applicable).
• Does not count as Custom Content.

Examples of Flex Page Usage

• Scenario 1: The editor replaces page 3 with a flex page to accommodate a lower word count and additional photos.
• Scenario 2: The editor swaps out page 3 with a flex page to fit horizontal images provided by a restaurant.