Fifteen years of research on hyperbranched polymers in the group of Brigitte Voit are described, with a focus first on hyperbranched polyester synthesis and then on the addition and cycloaddition reactions used for the preparation of the hyperbranched structure. The characterization of structural details and bulk, solution, and thin-film properties is highlighted, and steps toward the elucidation of a general property profile of hyper-branched polymers are discussed. Some effects of hyperbranched polymers in reactive formulations and blends and in thin films are addressed that can lead to applications in coatings, as additives, and in microelectronics or sensorics. The great progress possible in the last years is shown, but open questions and unsolved problems are also pointed out. (c) 2005 Wiley Periodicals.