A review protocol is important for several reasons:
The above is adapted from Preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) 2015: elaboration and explanation
Review protocols should be developed before beginning your review to ensure transparency, and to reduce risk of bias in study selection and data extraction. There are many tools to assist in the development of a review protocol, some of which are listed below:
Why should I register my review?
Research teams register their systematic review protocols in national or international registries for the following reasons:
Transparency and reproducibility:
Transparency shows others that this work is in progress. Risk of bias and selective reporting are minimised when research questions, objectives, eligibility criteria, and planned analyses are clearly documented. Protocol registration allows other review teams to replicate and evaluate the methodology against best practices. Publication of protocols reduces duplication.
Minimisation of arbitrary decisions and methodological rigour:
Registering the review protocol is a key step in minimising arbitrary decisions. The process of registering the protocol requires careful consideration by the research team on ensuring the research question is well defined and specific and developing the search strategy to identify relevant studies.
Reduction of research wastage/duplication:
Protocol registration helps prevent duplication of effort and research wastage.
Publication and funding requirement:
The prospective registration of a review protocol is often a requirement of some funding agencies and journals, or is strongly recommended.
There are lots of options for registering reviews. Where you register will depend on the type of review you choose and your preferences. Below are some options for where to register: