1. A method of constructing a presentation in a platform independent manner, the method comprising: defining a layout that includes a top split, wherein said top split includes a first orientation parameter specifying an orientation for any daughter split created within said top split; receiving a request to create a daughter split within said top split; generating said daughter split within said top split in accordance with said first orientation parameter, wherein said daughter split includes a second orientation parameter specifying an orientation for any child split created within said daughter split; and converting said layout to said presentation.