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. 2024 Jul 23;29(4):264-271.
doi: 10.1136/bmjebm-2023-112530.

Rapid review methods series: Guidance on the use of supportive software

Lisa Affengruber  1   2 , Barbara Nussbaumer-Streit  3 , Candyce Hamel  4   5 , Miriam Van der Maten  6 , James Thomas  7 , Chris Mavergames  8 , Rene Spijker  9 , Gerald Gartlehner  3   10 ; Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group
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Rapid review methods series: Guidance on the use of supportive software

Lisa Affengruber et al. BMJ Evid Based Med. .

Abstract

This paper is part of a series of methodological guidance from the Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group. Rapid reviews (RRs) use modified systematic review methods to accelerate the review process while maintaining systematic, transparent and reproducible methods. This paper guides how to use supportive software for RRs.We strongly encourage the use of supportive software throughout RR production. Specifically, we recommend (1) using collaborative online platforms that enable working in parallel, allow for real-time project management and centralise review details; (2) using automation software to support, but not entirely replace a human reviewer and human judgement and (3) being transparent in reporting the methodology and potential risk for bias due to the use of supportive software.

Keywords: Methods.

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Conflict of interest statement

Competing interests: LA is an associate convenor of the RRMG. BNS, CH and GG are co-convenors of the RRMG.

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