Revised JBI Methodology for Systematic Reviews of Textual Evidence

JBI has long advocated for the legitimacy of non-research data in informing decisions when empirical evidence is lacking. However, it emphasises the importance of subjecting such evidence to the same critical scrutiny applied to other forms of evidence.

First developed in 2004, JBI methodology for the systematic review of textual evidence seeks to determine the authenticity and credibility of textual evidence sources. This methodology has been revised in 2024 and is available in the 2024 edition of the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis.

JBI conceptualises textual evidence as documented communication sources (other than research) that inform decision making in healthcare. This includes evidence derived from narrative, opinion and policy.

The revised methodology provides clear indications for when to conduct a review of textual evidence, including as a standalone review to analyse opinion, discourse, or policy. It acknowledges the challenges of synthesising conflicting opinions and narratives but underscores the value of transparent systematic processes in identifying the best available textual evidence.

“While the JBI approach acknowledges diverse evidence sources, it favours a structured systematic review method over narrative synthesis, rooted in discourse analysis. This approach assesses evidence authenticity and credibility, emphasising the unique nature of narrative, expert opinion, and policy data”, said methodologist and Executive Director of JBI, Prof Zoe Jordan.

There are 3 indications for reviewing textual evidence:

1. as an adjunct to a qualitative or quantitative review where there are no research studies;  

2. as an adjunct to a comprehensive review where textual evidence may provide context;  

3. as a stand-alone review to analyse opinion, discourse, or policy  
 

“Drawing on insights from clinical wisdom and expert consensus, textual evidence serves as a vital complement to empirical research or stands alone when formal research is scarce. Systematic reviews of textual evidence require careful consideration of validity, message extraction, and synthesis to inform policy and practice effectively”, said methodologist, Alexa McArthur.

One of the key revisions to the methodological guidance for textual evidence synthesis are the three new critical appraisal tools for the synthesis of textual evidence.
 

The revised methodology reflects JBI’s commitment to providing practitioners and policymakers with the most robust and comprehensive evidence to guide decision-making in healthcare.

More information on JBI methodology for the systematic review of textual evidence is available in the recorded presentation from JBI iGNITE:

Go to the 2024 edition of the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis for the revised methodology and more resources for the systematic review of textual evidence.