What is the purpose of a whitepaper?

@augustus.ziemann 

The purpose of a whitepaper is to present an authoritative, in-depth, and informative report or guide on a specific topic. It is typically used in business, technology, or academic contexts to address complex issues, propose solutions, or provide detailed explanations of products, services, or concepts. Whitepapers aim to educate and persuade readers, often providing insights, research findings, statistics, and expert opinions to support their claims. They are used as a marketing tool to showcase expertise, build credibility, and generate leads or sales in industries where knowledge and expertise are crucial.