Rayyan—a web and mobile app for systematic reviews

• DOI: 10.1186/s13643-016-0384-4
• Publication Date: 2016-12-05T17:14:51Z
• Authors: Mourad Ouzzani; Hossam Hammady; Zbys Fedorowicz; Ahmed Elmagarmid
• Keywords: Upload

Synthesis of multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in a systematic review can summarize the effects individual outcomes and provide numerical answers about effectiveness interventions. Filtering searches is time consuming, no single method fulfills principal requirements speed with accuracy. Automation reviews driven by necessity to expedite availability current best evidence for policy clinical decision-making. We developed Rayyan ( http://rayyan.qcri.org ), free web mobile app, that helps initial screening abstracts titles using process semi-automation while incorporating high level usability. For beta testing phase, we used two published Cochrane which included studies had been selected manually. Their searches, 1030 records 273 records, were uploaded Rayyan. Different features tested these reviews. also conducted survey Rayyan's users collected feedback through built-in feature. Pilot focused on usability, accuracy against manual methods, added value prediction The "taster" (273 records) allowed quick overview early comments second (1030 required several iterations identify previously identified 11 trials. "suggestions" "hints," based "prediction model," appeared as progressed beyond five studies. Post rollout user experiences reflexive response developers enabled real-time modifications improvements. respondents reported 40% average savings when compared others tools, 34% reporting more than 50% savings. In addition, around 75% mentioned labeling well collaborating be most important As November 2016, exceed 2000 from over 60 countries conducting hundreds totaling 1.6M citations. Feedback users, obtained mostly app site recent survey, has highlighted ease exploration saved, simplicity sharing comparing include-exclude decisions. strongest feedback, its ability help collaboration it affords users. responsive intuitive use significant potential lighten load reviewers.