White papers are publications used by companies to showcase a specific product or service more in-depth than advertising can. Usually well-written, a white paper seeks to engage the audience by showing specific examples and using clear arguments. Beyond the author, a common thread among white papers is the use of a problem and solution. Rather than beginning by just naming the merits of said product or service like a brochure or marketing data sheet, a white paper usually highlights a problem that is common with the target audience of the paper. The focus is on the user rather than the product or service. Then after clearly outlining a problem, good white papers will show how the product or service can be used to solve the problem. Often, a real-life testimonial is used to further substantiate the benefits of the product or service.
A formal written report that includes research findings and a student's own ideas.