Developing reporting checklist items from systematic review findings: a roadmap and lessons to be learned from ACCORD

Area of Science:

• Health Research Methodology
• Scientific Reporting Standards

Background:

• Reporting guidelines enhance research transparency and reproducibility.
• Systematic reviews are crucial for developing reporting guidelines.
• The Enhancing the QUAlity and Transparency Of health Research (EQUATOR) Network toolkit requires updating to address current gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate translating systematic review findings into reporting guideline checklist items.
• To empower researchers in developing reporting guidelines.
• To address potential biases and promote transparency in research.

Main Methods:

• Illustrating a process based on experience developing the ACcurate Consensus Reporting Document.
• Iterative systematic review search strategy development with an information specialist.
• Reflecting on challenges and solutions in data extraction and guideline development.

Main Results:

• An iterative search process is necessary to balance precision and sensitivity.
• Flexibility in exclusion criteria is vital to capture relevant insights.
• Clear communication and adaptation to panelist feedback are essential.

Conclusions:

• Flexibility, evolving insights, and clear communication are key for effective reporting checklists.
• Adapting to changes in research and technology is crucial.
• This process promotes transparency and robustness in research reporting.