About us

The Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group (RRMG) was approved as a Cochrane Methods Group in October 2015.

Aim: The aim of the RRMG is to better inform ‘rapid review’ methodology. This is an area of new methodological development for Cochrane, which may influence the way in which a subset of reviews and/or other products by Cochrane are undertaken to accommodate condensed timelines for urgent decision-making.

The group addresses further research specific to the conduct of rapid reviews; supporting Cochrane groups to make more informed choices about their methods and possible processes to undertake abbreviated Cochrane reviews making them more streamlined, timely, and relevant to end-users.

The RRMG works with several organizations that are focused on developing rapid evidence syntheses to help identify relevant methodological studies and important methodological questions that should be addressed. The RRMG supports those seeking to undertake rapid reviews.

Primary Objectives: The RMGG provides guidance on rapid review conduct. It also informs Cochrane groups on the empirical evidence available for rapid review methods, and therefore, it endeavours to serve as a forum for discussion, connecting interested people both from within and outside of Cochrane.

Secondary Objectives: The RMGG conducts empirical studies to develop an evidence base in order to establish sound rapid review methods according to best practice.

Core Functions of the RRMG:

  • Providing policy advice to the Cochrane Editorial Unit, Review Groups, Fields, Centers, Cochrane Steering Group, Cochrane Innovations, etc.
  • Handbook Chapter
  • Serving as a forum for discussion
  • Maintain email list
  • Database of methods publications
  • Ensuring the RRMG collaborates with other Cochrane Methods Groups 
  • Links to outside organizations such as Guidelines International Network (G-I-N), WHO Guidelines Development Committee, other guideline developers, International Network of Agencies for Health Technology Assessments (INAHTA), and other other potential commissioners/end-users of RRs

 

Elective Functions & Future Activities of the RRMG:

  • Conduct methods research on RR methods & processes
  • Provide training and support