Frameworks to identify research gaps, frame research needs, and derive research priorities from evidence syntheses: a...

To identify and describe frameworks for systematically identifying research gaps from evidence syntheses, framing research needs, and establishing priorities, with emphasis on their use of GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) certainty of evidence (CoE) domains and evidence-to-decision (EtD) criteria.

We conducted a scoping review following JBI guidance, searching MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Web of Science on July 14, 2025, for publications from 2011 onward. Eligible documents described approaches for identifying research gaps or formulating research needs from systematic reviews or other evidence syntheses, not limited to GRADE. Data were extracted on framework structure, methods for gap identification, use of GRADE CoE to explore nature of the gaps, GRADE EtD to frame needs, and strategies for prioritization.

Fourteen frameworks from 17 publications were identified. Five frameworks used the Population, Interventions, Comparisons and Outcomes (PICO) approach to characterize research gaps. Six frameworks provided explicit methods to investigate the nature of the gaps, typically through GRADE CoE assessment. None fully integrated the GRADE EtD framework, although some considered selected EtD criteria when framing research needs. Four included methods for prioritizing needs.

Frameworks to identify research gaps and formulate needs from evidence syntheses are heterogeneous and often lack explicit methods for investigating the nature of the gaps or prioritizing research. This review will inform guidance on how to use GRADE to systematically and transparently inform future research.