Portfolios: Digital vs. Print

Last updated on June 4, 2014

As a professional, you are contemplating the compilation of your portfolio. You may be asking yourself, “What is better, digital or print?” There is no cut and dry answer. There are benefits and drawbacks to using both. I will say now that you may very well opt to use both to cover your bases and that is perfectly fine. As we delve in to explore both options, think of what would work best for you and your work.

Which is a better format for your portfolio, print, or agenda?

First, let us discuss the benefits and drawbacks of having printed portfolio. Your audience will have something tangible to work with. There is something nice about having something tangible to view and examine. You honestly can never go wrong with the traditional approach to having a printed portfolio. Know your audience in advance. Try to understand what your critic or potential employer prefers.

Some people are more progressive and tech-savvy. It could impress them if you show that you are well versed in the digital world. Some items are more powerful on paper than they are digitized. Make the call and judge what will have a better impact. A drawback of printing off your portfolio is the cost of printing. Having a digital portfolio can save you money. To cover your bases it would not hurt to have a printed portfolio on hand to cater to the preference of others.

Digital Portfolio

Second, let us explore the benefits and drawbacks of having a digital portfolio. The main benefit of having a digital portfolio is cost. You will save money on printing and paper by keeping things digital. Also by keeping things digital, you will have your items in the most portable state. If you have interviews or presentations having digitized items that would normally be large will be easier “carry around”.

Printed Portfolio

If having a printed copy of a particular item is more powerful than showing a digital version, then print it off. If you want to save money, something you can do is print off what you think is necessary and show the digital version of what you think is not necessary to print off. Feel free to mix and match. As you think about what companies to use for printing, we recommend that you use Printing in the Richardson area. They are low cost and high quality.

If you decide to stick to having a digital portfolio, you might have to invest in a tablet, ipad, or laptop to assist in the presentation of your material. These electronic items are definitely an investment. Depending on what you buy it can get expensive. Decide if the cost is worth it.

We have discussed the benefits and drawbacks of printed verses digital portfolios. Weigh your options and make the most informed decision you can. You may or may not want to invest in both. Perhaps having both will be a long-term goal of yours. Whatever you choose good luck with building a career and making long lasting professional connections.