Hyperdocumentation: origin and evolution of a concept

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide context and raise interest for the term hyperdocumentation in the context of document theory. Design/methodology/approach The origin of the term is established through etymology and bibliographical research. The term is contextualized with conceptual research on the nature of documents and the construction of social reality through documentation. Prominent uses of the term outside of traditional research on documents is investigated. Findings The authors describe what hyperdocumentation translates to in terms of experience as of today (the different types of hyperdocumentation). Comparison to the initial definition underlines a key issue: the absence of a social contract that would define hyperdocumentality. Originality/value This paper presents novel research on the term hyperdocumentation, including its origin before hypertext, its use outside of traditional document science and its implications for document theory.