A method for computing apparatus to create a page with a plurality of information items laid out upon it is described. A plurality of information items and a definition of one or more groups of information items to be formed on the page are received, as is a candidate layout of the information items on the page. Perceptual distances between information items in the candidate layout are determined, the perceptual distances representing both physical distance and graphical variation between relevant information items. It is determined from the perceptual distances whether the candidate layout satisfies predetermined criteria such that the candidate layout is perceived as visually representing the one or more groups. If the candidate layout is not perceived as visually representing the one or more groups, it is modified or regenerated until it does so.