The manufacturer should have recommendations on that in the installation instructions.

Not one bit so long as it's running the same direction. Your designer or installer should have recommendations regarding how best to utilize manufacturer's sizes based on your needs.

Because Laminate flooring is supported by a ply-wood sub floor it doesn't structurally matter which direction it is laid as it might in a hard-wood floor.
The best rule of thumb is to see what will fit best with your room. If you run it long ways it may make your space feel too long an narrow. And sometime sir you run it short ways it may make the space feel too small... Occasionally I install it on the diagonal to give a dynamic and fun movement to the space without becoming too busy, lil win this nursery school I have just finished designing.