Evidence Synthesis

What is Evidence Synthesis?

Cochrane defines evidence synthesis as "a way of combining information from multiple studies that have investigated the same thing, to come to an overall understanding of what they found." There are a number of different types of evidence synthesis, but they all have certain points in common. All evidence synthesis projects:

• Attempt to identify and synthesize all research on a specific topic;
• Follow defined methodological guidelines or standards;
• Are reproducible, transparent, and unbiased;
• Focus on a specific, well-formulated research question.

Evidence synthesis identifies gaps in existing research, and provides evidence for practice and policy-making for the future. 

Librarians and Evidence Synthesis

At NDSU, librarians can work with you on your systematic review or other evidence-based synthesis through individualized research consultations. Librarians may also be able to offer instruction sessions focused on specific aspects of evidence synthesis.

Due to the large time commitment necessary for co-authorship, librarians at the NDSU Libraries do not currently have the capacity for this level of involvement.

In consultations, librarians can offer feedback, recommendations, and/or guidance with the following aspects of the evidence synthesis process as time permits:

• An overview of the systematic review or evidence synthesis process
• Formulating clear and focused research questions
• Recommendations for databases and other resources to search for evidence
• Recommendations and assistance in developing and refining search strategies
• Using reference management tools
• Accessing full-text resources, including through interlibrary loan

Before contacting the library to arrange a consultation, please review the evidence synthesis process and understand the role of the librarian so you are able to make the most of your consultation.