An electronic portfolio, also known as an e-portfolio, digital portfolio, and web or website portfolio, is a collection of electronic evidence (artifacts, including inputted text, electronic files such as Word and PDF files, images, multimedia, blog entries and Web links etc.) assembled and managed by a user, usually online.
Electronic or web portfolios have an edge over the traditional, paper-based résumé because they allow the potential employee to showcase examples of his or her work in a much more visual, interactive, and interesting way. Web portfolios also offer several advantages over their physical counterparts. In addition to being more accessible and less easily damaged, they also allow artists to categorize their work. This can be especially useful to people who have different styles, media or types of work; viewers can select the work that's relevant to their purpose.
The job market has seen a rise in the usage of e-portfolios and more employers are now expecting to see tangible evidence of one's work provided in this highly accessible format.
As more and more people and professionals grow dependent on the internet, it makes sense that portfolios would follow this trend. A web portfolio is an important tool for creatives of all types - illustrators, actors, directors, advertising creatives, copywriters, voice-over writers, music business executives, all of whom benefit from the increased publicity and accessibility of a web portfolio.
Tips for Creating a Web Portfolio[]
When designing a web portfolio for any creative area, the design of the site becomes part of the content housed within the portfolio.
Test a web portfolio Every web portfolio should be tested in the four major web platforms, Explorer, [www.apple.com/safari/download/ Safari], [www.mozilla.com/ Firefox] and Opera, or you run the risk of technical failure.
Print Portfolios vs. Web Portfolios[]
Since each type of portfolio offers distinct advantages, many professionals employ both types to have the maximum amount of visibility and accessibility to potential clients and employers. Web portfolios allow instantaneous access worldwide, with several organizational options and the ability to combine sounds and video with still images and text. Print portfolios are often used in face-to-face interviews for several reasons; they are not subject to technical failure and they provide more interesting conversation pieces during interviews. While web portfolios are becoming increasingly popular, print books are still considered standard in more image and text based fields.
Additional Resources[]
How to Design a Web Portfolio A nuts and bolts guide on how to do it yourself. Should you get stuck, they also happen to offer professional web portfolio design.