By: Arthur Cooper
Submitted: 2010-09-15 03:03:10 | Word Count: 664
For a long times, one of the few complaints Facebook users had was the inability to apply different background layouts for Facebook. Unlike MySpace, which allows users to radically change the way their profile appears, it is often difficult to recognize it as a MySpace page. Facebook has long stuck with their traditional, if somewhat plain background layout. There is some evidence that Facebook may have begun to move towards a more customizable experience for their users.
Facebook has traditionally shied away from including customizable backgrounds in their package. The website, designed specifically to allow people to make connections and find lost friends, was meant to be utilitarian in nature. The functionality of the searches and the ability to complete profiles always stood out as the primary abilities of the website. Because of other popular social networking sites and their ability to customize their look and feel, some believe that background layouts for Facebook will soon be on the horizon.
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Today, those looking to customize their Facebook layout have several options.
Currently there is no method to completely change background layouts for Facebook; however, there are several techniques that can be used to create a unique profile page for each user.
1. Applications: Facebook is loaded with applications and some of them are designed to add interesting bits and pieces to a profile page. Tattoos, counters, banners and more are offered through a variety of application programs. The various applications are free to use and can be an excellent way to add a bit of color to a profile page.
2. Settings: Facebook has recently made large changes to the overall look and feel of the profile page. In some cases it is possible to make small changes to remove some of the standard offerings.
There is also some evidence that third party providers are offering Facebook background layouts. It is unclear what the ‘official’ guideline is regarding the use of these layouts. Still, some are turning to third parties to provide them with the ability to customize their profile page. Finding a reputable provider and being careful about what you install is of paramount importance. It is also highly suggested that each user careful review the Terms of Service prior to making changes in order to avoid a possible ban.
It is likely that in the future Facebook will make more of an effort to implement the use of layouts and backgrounds. The popularity of this feature on other social networking sites all but guarantees Facebook will make a move in this direction. Likely, these backgrounds and layouts will be offered on a limited basis at first. Like MySpace, Facebook users can look forward to changing everything from the color of their page to what is displayed.
Background layouts for Facebook, officially sanctioned, may appear sooner than we think. It appears to be a necessity if Facebook hopes to remain the most popular social networking site available.
