A white paper is an informative report or guide that addresses a specific issue, problem, or topic. White papers are not peer-reviewed. They serve a specific audience, offering a focused discussion on a particular topic. They are typically written by experts or organizations with in-depth knowledge or experience in a particular field. White papers aim to provide comprehensive information, analysis, and insights to help readers understand a complex subject and make informed decisions.
The term “white paper” is a holdover from a time when government documents bound in white were made for public release, and so they were literally white papers.
In a business context, white papers are commonly used as marketing tools to showcase thought leadership, expertise, and innovative solutions related to a company's products or services.