DFID research: Systematic review database just one click away
3ie has launched the first searchable online database of international development systematic reviews.
The International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie) has launched the first searchable online database of international development systematic reviews. Supported by DFID, the database provides summaries of the findings and methodologies of existing systematic reviews and protocols, as well as links to the full reports.
Systematic reviews examine all the existing evidence on a particular intervention, critically appraise the evidence and synthesise the results. The systematic reviews in the database relate to international development disciplines such as agriculture, education, nutrition and health. More content will be added as it becomes available.
DFID’s Chief Scientific Advisor, Chris Whitty, said: “Getting the best evidence, properly assessed, is essential for proper policy decisions. Systematic reviews involve a rigorous assessment of available evidence, so provide a strong foundation for any decision-maker seeking to become more evidence-informed in their work. This new database not only brings together international development systematic reviews into one place; it is also fully searchable and helps busy decision-makers by bringing the key findings to the fore.”
“Systematically summarised evidence is crucial for designing effective policies that have an impact on people. This database is an easily accessible resource for policymakers and researchers who can now do a quick check to see what works, what doesn’t, why and in what contexts”, said Howard White, 3ie Executive Director.
The database can be found on the 3ie website.