PROTOCOL: Methods used in the development, production and updating of evidence and gap maps: A scoping review

Fiona Campbell; Ruth Wong; Jennifer L Llewellyen; Akvile Stoniute; Fiona Pearson; Melissa Bond

doi:10.1002/cl2.1402

PROTOCOL: Methods used in the development, production and updating of evidence and gap maps: A scoping review

Campbell Syst Rev. 2024 Apr 28;20(2):e1402. doi: 10.1002/cl2.1402. eCollection 2024 Jun.

Authors

Fiona Campbell¹, Ruth Wong², Jennifer L Llewellyen², Akvile Stoniute¹, Fiona Pearson¹, Melissa Bond³

Affiliations

¹ Population Health Sciences Institute Newcastle University Newcastle UK.
² School for Health and Related Research University of Sheffield Sheffield UK.
³ EPPI Centre University College London London UK.

Abstract

Evidence and gap maps (EGMs) are an increasinly popular approach used in evidence synthesis. As an approach they address broad research questions, describing the existing evidence base, highlighting evidence gaps and providing an interactive visual tool for knowledge users. The purpose of this methodological study is to explore the the processes used in the development of EGM's and how they are reported. The aim is to better understand current practice and identify where clearer guidance is needed to support their production.

Keywords: evidence and gap maps; evidence synthesis; mapping reviews; scoping review; systematic review.