Box 1 Definitions of key terms that describe the process and products of systematically reviewing policy-relevant research

Systematic reviews of research inspect research reports using explicit, accountable and rigorous research methods [7]

Research synthesis aims to integrate the findings of different studies to answer the review question leading to knowledge that is greater than the sum of the individual studies [7]

Policy relevant Systematic reviews can be considered relevant to policy (and policy makers) when they present findings clearly for policy audiences to: illuminate policy problems; challenge or develop policy assumptions; or offer evidence about the impact or implementation of policy options; and take into account diversity of people and contexts [18]

Transdisciplinary research integrates the natural, social and health sciences in a humanities context, and in so doing transcends each of their traditional boundaries. It does so by scientists and other stakeholders working together beyond their traditional roles to transcend traditional boundaries to investigate systems in a holistic way [8]

Stakeholders in systematic reviews include any person, organisation or social group that may influence or be influenced by the process of preparing or using systematic reviews or by the decisions informed by their findings