Using voice and print directives and warnings to supplement product manual instructions

The present research investigated the effect of supplemental messages on compliance with and recall of product manual instructions. During the unpacking of a computer disk drive supplemental messages were presented that concerned procedures to prevent product damage during installation. The supplemental messages were either presented by digitized voice (auditory) or by printed placard (visual). Two types of message were presented. Either the message gave specific warning instructions or directed users to a specific location in the product manual where the instructions were printed. Results show that the supplemental voice and print messages increased compliance behavior compared to the manual only. The voice message produced the greatest recall compared to print or no supplement. There was no effect of the warning vs directive manipulation. The results support the use of supplemental messages to communicate particularly important information. Implications for the delivery of warning instructions in product manuals are discussed. Relevance to industry Manufacturers are responsible for warning users about hazards associated with foreseeable use or misuse of their products. The present study shows that a supplemental print or voice message combined with a typical product manual produces significantly higher compliance than the manual alone. ( 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.