Hi,
I've created a new course format for Moodle 2.3.2+, version 2012062502.05 (Build: 20121005) and above called 'Columns'. It is the same as the Topics format but aranges the topics in columns, between 1 to 4, setable on a per course basis.
The code is the same as the columns functionality in my Collapsed Topic's course format.
Please find attached the first 'beta' version for non-production sites.
Feedback appreciated, cheers,
Gareth