Abstract As research becomes predominantly digitalised, scientists have the option of using electronic laboratory notebooks to record and access entries, meeting volume, complexity, accessibility and preservation requirements where paper notebooks fall short. The technology can yield many benefits; however, these can only be realised by choosing a system that properly fulfils the requirements of a given context. This perspective explores the considerations for an academic focused electronic laboratory notebook by citing pertinent studies, as well as drawing from our own experience implementing a system within a multi-disciplinary research environment. We consider how the required financial and time investment is shared between individuals and institutions. Finally, we discuss how electronic laboratory notebooks fit into the broader context of research data management. This perspective is not a product review; it provides a framework for both the initial consideration of an electronic laboratory notebook and the evaluation of specific software packages.