White paper directories are web sites that host and index documents such as articles and white papers. White paper directories can range from general publication directories that index a wide range of white papers to highly specialized directories. Directories can include a profile for each white paper they list, classify white papers into key categories and control access to white paper content.

While general white paper directories can have a significant amount of site visitors, the number of visitors that may search and find white papers on a specific topic or issue may be limited. Specialized white paper directories may include detailed classifications that can help attract and guide qualified visitors to white papers that focus on specific topics.

White Paper Profile - A white paper profile is a set of information and characteristics that are associated with an information document. These characteristics may include title, sponsor/contributor, subject category, descriptions and keywords, as well as other characteristics.

White Paper Classification - White paper classification is the assignment of a label or code that has a set of attributes such as an industry type, subject category or required skill level).

White Paper Access Control - White paper directories may also provide access controls such as download registration and delivery services. White paper access control is the processes that are used to identify, authorize and provide information documents to readers. White paper access control can range and may require little or no profile entry (submission form) or highly detailed profile entry including identity validation (email delivery validation).

This figure shows an example of a listing on a white paper directory. This example shows that a white paper directory provides visitors with the ability to search for white papers by categories or keywords. After the visitor has entered their qualifying criteria, a list of candidate white papers is displayed. This directory prioritizes white paper search results based on review popularity.