Many institutions and organizations rely on standards-based assessment for their students. In most cases, this means that students compile a three-ring-binder portfolio showcasing their progress over the course of a graduate studies program. The greatest criticism of the traditional portfolio, however, is that students complete the assignment in a vacuum and spend too much time concerned with how it looks rather than what is says about their progress towards professional excellence.

The DP system was developed to mirror the Johns Hopkins M.A.T. paper portfolio process that has been refined over the past seven years. The electronic version was launched in 2001, pilot tested by 25 M.A.T. students over the course of a semester, and rolled out to more than 800 preservice and in-service teachers during 2002. The application is being improved continuously and enhanced based on the feedback of students and faculty.

The DP system incorporates two distinct interfaces:

1. Working portfolio: This interface, which is accessible to only the portfolio owner, is the starting point. It is where the owner gathers and develops evidence of his/her professional growth over time. The owner may grant partial access to trusted peers and advisors at any time.
2. Presentation interface: This is a publicly accessible version of the finished portfolio that includes the content the owner wishes to share with the outside world. The presentation function allows the owner to export any portion of his/her portfolio to a unique URL, which can then be distributed by resume or business card. The tool also allows the owner to customize three presentations for different audiences.