Choosing the best eportfolio can be a challenge – whether you're a university, college, training provider or business.

There are lots of things to think about. What type of training or qualifications will it be used for? How many learners will you enroll? Will users need to access the portfolio offline? Can learners use the same account throughout their career? Does the system support accreditation and quality standards? Can you create custom content?

The questions are endless – and we've only just scratched the surface! So to help you choose the right eportfolio for your organisation, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 things to look out for when you're comparing eportfolio software:

1. Collaboration tools

Eportfolios are all about bringing people together so they can learn, work and grow. Choose an eportfolio with review features, live dashboards, instant feedback, video calling and remote access so learners, tutors and employers can work together throughout the programme. With the right tools, all users will have complete transparency across the system, making collaboration easy.

2. Content mapping

The crème de la crème of eportfolios is content mapping. If an eportfolio has a fully integrated VLE, it will map assessment criteria against learning outcomes automatically, and sync the data back to the eportfolio. It means progress is shared across the whole platform, so you don't have to duplicate data.

3. Reputation and knowledge

Whether you're new to the sector or not, partnering with someone who really knows their stuff is always a good thing. Read case studies, social media conversations, and ask around to see what people think about their eportfolio provider. Find out which ones speak at conferences, host events and have authority across the sector. It's also a good idea to check out some providers' websites and see if they post any articles or resources.

4. Accreditations

Accreditations are more than just a pat on the back when it comes to eportfolios. They're important endorsements that indicate the software's quality assurance and data protection processes. Choose a software that's been endorsed by multiple awarding bodies and has robust information security accreditations – look out for ISO27001.

5. Integrations

Switching from one software to another is annoying – so why do it if you don't have to? Find an eportfolio that already integrates with your MIS system and form software so you can move between them easily. If they integrate, information can be synced automatically and shared across multiple platforms so you don't have to duplicate data.

Now you know what to look out for, it's time to put some eportfolio providers under the microscope. We've created 10 must-ask questions for you to pose to your provider, so you can find out everything you need to know before make a decision.