Coproducing a Cochrane Qualitative Evidence Synthesis: Process, Outcomes, and Reflections on Power

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Evidence Synthesis
• Knowledge Translation

Background:

• Growing emphasis on knowledge democratization encourages evidence coproduction with non-academic stakeholders.
• Limited research exists on the specific approaches and outcomes of coproduction in systematic reviews.
• Cochrane qualitative evidence syntheses (QES) are increasingly involving external interest holders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the process and outcomes of coproduction in a recent Cochrane qualitative evidence synthesis (QES).
• To reflect on power dynamics within the coproduction approach.
• To identify strategies for minimizing power imbalances in future evidence coproduction.

Main Methods:

• A commentary format describing a specific case of coproduction in a QES.
• Analysis of the coproduction process, including stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
• Reflection on power relations and potential strategies for mitigation.

Main Results:

• Detailed description of the coproduction process used for the QES.
• Identification of specific outcomes resulting from the coproduction effort.
• Discussion of observed power imbalances and their potential impact.

Conclusions:

• Coproduction in evidence synthesis requires careful consideration of process and power dynamics.
• Future coproduction efforts can benefit from strategies to ensure equitable participation.
• Further research is needed on the long-term impacts and optimal methods for evidence coproduction.