How can a custom layout be implemented in Liferay?

Implementing a custom layout in Liferay is effectively achieved by creating a new layout template and assigning it to a page. This approach allows developers to define specific structures and styles for their pages without altering existing templates or themes. A layout template can include various elements such as columns, sections, and application displays that dictate how content is presented on the page.

By creating a new layout template, developers gain the flexibility to customize the user experience based on the unique requirements of a site, ensuring that the design aligns with branding and functionality goals. This method provides a structured way to deliver consistently designed pages while facilitating quick updates or changes in layout when needed.

Other methods, such as modifying existing themes, might not give developers the same level of specificity in terms of layout, as themes are more focused on styles and visual components rather than the structural layout of the page. Configuration in global site settings is more about configuring overall site behavior rather than creating specific page layouts. Utilizing external layout management tools might introduce additional complexity that could be avoided by leveraging Liferay's built-in functionalities for layout management.