be supplied directly to the consumer via systems such as print mail and electronic correspondence, or it can be indirectly supplied to the product's target audience as material that is associated with the acquisition of the product. There is continued debate as to which method of delivery is more effective at selling a product. (Jackson, Keith & Burdick, 1987). It is also possible for promotional literature to be memorised and utilised by a salesperson of the product. Though in this case it is worth noting that the role of literature in this practice does not fit into the conventional understanding of written literature. Instead, the information becomes subject to the psychological pressures that come with selling person to person. (Dichter et al., 1954). While the primary function of promotional literature is to make the product appeal to a consumer, it can also be used as a form of market research by the manufacturer. It can also be presented through permission based marketing as opposed to traditional methods of advertising. Additionally, there is no universally agreed format dictating how large or factually supported the promotional literature of a product should be. (BMJ, 1970). It is up to the manufacturer to determine what quantity and accuracy of material is appropriate to make available for the consumer. Product datasheets Product datasheets are a form of product literature used to provide quantitative information to the manufacturer or a consumer in relation to a product. A manufacturer may choose to implement datasheets during the development phase of a product as a means of smoothing production later. (Krane & Braun, 1991). Datasheets can also be used throughout the creation of a product to track inventories, to model supply and demand and to calculate profit margins. In recent years each of these tasks have become more necessary for business' to ensure a high level of traceability in accordance with governmental regulations. (McKay, 2008). Online datasheets and specifications are seen on e-commerce platforms as a means to compensate for the lack of physical interaction that the consumer has with the product. (Jiang & Benbasat, 2007). They work alongside text and images to deliver the promotional literature in a more comprehensive manner that is necessary given the challenges that accompany online shopping. Datasheets for consumers are usually not made for the same logistical purpose that the manufacturers’ are and are instead frequently provided as another form of promotional or