Developing a Protocol for Systematic and Scoping Reviews

Developed in 2015, the PRISMA-P (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis Protocols) checklist provides guidance on what should be included in an SR protocol. Like other PRISMA models, this should be viewed as the bare minimum of what to include.

The Campbell Collaboration is a source through which systematic reviews can be conducted. Campbell follows the Cochrane Handbook guidelines for systematic reviews as well as their own policies and guidelines in protocol and organization of the review (The Campbell Collaboration, 2020). For authors to publish with Campbell, they must register and be approved prior to conducting the evidence synthesis. Review Campbell's website for more information.

Cochrane Reviews offers distinct descriptions and requirements for what is to be included in a protocol when conducting a Cochrane review. This information is available in the Methodological Expectations of Cochrane Intervention Reviews (MECIR). Keep in mind, in order to conduct a Cochrane review, there are further measures authors must take in addition to the procedures for conducting a systematic review (Cumpston & Chandler, 2021). Review the Cochrane website carefully prior to beginning your review process.