🛠️Tools and Software for SLR
A systematic literature review (SLR) involves a comprehensive and structured approach to searching, selecting, and analyzing relevant research papers. To facilitate this process, various tools and software can be used to streamline tasks. Here is a list of tools commonly used for conducting a systematic literature review:
Reference Management Software:
EndNote: A popular reference management tool for organizing, storing, and citing references in SLRs.
Zotero: A free, open-source reference management software that helps collect, organize, and cite research materials.
Mendeley: Combines reference management, PDF annotation, and social networking features, aiding in SLR organization and collaboration.
Database Search Tools:
PubMed: A widely-used database for medical and life sciences research.
IEEE Xplore: Useful for computer science and engineering SLRs.
Web of Science: Provides access to a wide range of academic disciplines.
Scopus: Offers extensive coverage of scientific literature across various fields.
Google Scholar: A free tool for discovering scholarly articles, useful for broad searches.
Systematic Review Software:
Covidence: Specifically designed for managing systematic reviews, it facilitates screening, data extraction, and collaboration.
Rayyan: A web-based tool for systematic reviewers to screen and collaborate on study selection.
DistillerSR: DistillerSR is another proprietary platform that excels in meeting the essential criteria for systematic review work. Researchers often opt for DistillerSR due to its robust capabilities and user-friendly interface.
Screening and Data Extraction Tools:
EPPI-Reviewer: A tool for systematic review management, data extraction, and synthesis. It offers a suite of features that streamline the review process, ensuring thorough and accurate results.
JBI SUMARI: Software for systematic review, meta-analysis, and evidence synthesis. JBI SUMARI is a proprietary systematic review software known for its comprehensive functionality and user-friendly interface. Researchers favor it for its ability to handle various types of systematic reviews effectively.
Giotto Compliance: Giotto Compliance is a proprietary, web-based systematic review tool known for its comprehensive feature set, making it a preferred choice among researchers for conducting systematic reviews with high precision.
Nested Knowledge: Nested Knowledge is recognized for its effectiveness in handling complex systematic reviews. Its inclusion of a wide array of key features makes it a valuable tool for researchers tackling intricate research questions.
LitStream: LitStream stands out for its capacity to support researchers in conducting systematic reviews efficiently. Its incorporation of crucial features facilitates the review process and contributes to the quality of the results.
Excel or Google Sheets: Often used for data extraction and organization of study characteristics, results, and quality assessments.
Screening Forms and Templates: Custom-designed forms or templates in Microsoft Word or Google Docs for screening and data extraction.
Online Survey Tools: For collecting data on the risk of bias assessments or other relevant data points.
Statistical Software: If conducting meta-analyses, software like R or specialized meta-analysis software (e.g., RevMan) may be needed.
Flowchart Diagram Tools: Tools like Lucidchart or draw.io can help create PRISMA flowcharts to visualize the screening process.
Collaboration and Communication Tools: Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Trello can facilitate collaboration among review team members.
Documentation and Reporting Tools: Microsoft Word or Google Docs for writing the systematic review report, adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
Screen Recording Tools: If collaboration involves virtual meetings and discussions, screen recording tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams can be useful for documentation.
The choice of tools depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. Many researchers use a combination of these tools to conduct a systematic literature review efficiently and accurately.
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