From manuals towards product embedded interactive learning environments

Late developments in information and communication technology show high impact on current implementation of technical documentation. The traditional use of technical documentations was solely defined as technical product information to aid the customer in cases of product learning or handling product malfunctions. Embedding technical documentation into the actual product opens new potentials for consumer learning as well as for various marketing purposes. For private sectors, in form of consumer electronics, and also for business scenarios like testing facilities or manufacturing installations, embedded learning environments enrich the product and open communication channels. By implementing feedback channels, interactive systems can be developed, providing useful information for users and letting businesses gain insights into product usage behaviors at the same time. We identify seven relevant factors for successful implementations of such systems. First implementations for diverse branches to demonstrate the current state-of-the-art in embedded interactive learning environments are depicted. In a critical analysis regarding the selected cases, current limitations and future potentials are highlighted. Finally, we focus on the product engineer´s perspective. Utilizing the product as major communication channel expands the engineer´s responsibilities, requiring new knowledge in business communication. A paradigm shift in the education of engineers is depicted as consequence of future developments.