If you opt for a portfolio on CD, you need to be prepared to spend time and/or money on creating a unique, professional presentation.

Your electronic portfolio should be an attractive, simple to use, self-contained application that runs directly off the CD. Unless you have experience in this field, get professional advice (which may be costly).

Your CD will need to run on both, the PC and the Mac platforms.

You can also get low-cost, easy to use templates, but you still need the skills to use them. Choose an up-to-date and stylish, yet clean and simple design.

Once you have created the CD, ensure that it invites recipients to look at it. Many inkjet printers can print on the surface of a CD. Find or create a memorable design (or get a pro to do it).

Avoid using the boring standard CD jewel cases. Try to find something more stylish instead. There are attractive metal and rubber cases on the market but they tend to be expensive. You could make a statement by using recycled packaging (so long as it is clear that you are not doing it just to save money).

On the downside it should be noted that not all agencies are prepared to look at material submitted on CD. Many people are apprehensive to put a CD of unknown origin into their computer - I wouldn't.

On balance, if you want to do it properly, a portfolio on CD is not a cheap and easy option. You need to be prepared to put in the time and the money. The effectiveness of a portfolio on CD is a little questionable.