Systematic review evidence in one minute or less

Article type
Authors
Van Eerd D1, Irvin E2, Vu U1, Buccat K1, Cullen K1, Moser C1
1Institute for Work & Health
2Cochrane Back and Neck
Abstract
Background: Getting research evidence to health consumers is a challenge. The Institute for Work & Health (IWH) initiated a systematic review program in 2004 to synthesize scientific literature and disseminate the results effectively. IWH systematic review products include two to three page lay summaries (called Sharing Best Evidence). The lay summaries are popular, but are considered long by some health consumers.

Objectives: Our objective was to produce, and post, short videos that summarize key findings of systematic reviews in one minute or less.

Methods: Video shorts were created by a multi-disciplinary team including a consumer, researcher, a video producer and a communications expert. The video shorts are based on high quality research (e.g. systematic review findings). Key messages are created in consultation with consumers. The production process begins with a storyboard (frame-by-frame outline). Development requires careful attention to style, pacing, tone, clarity, visual interest and audience appeal. Videos are tested with members of the target audience before being posted. Video shorts typically take about four weeks to complete.

Results: Two, one-minute videos developed by IWH were made to reach busy stakeholders with evidence they need to be safe in their work. The first video, posted in October 2016, is popular and has received over 1100 hits to date. Length - Videos are kept as short as possible, less than one minute. Format - No voice-overs are used. Simple graphics, images, text and short video clips are used, with instrumental background music. Content - Key messages from research findings are delivered in brief snippets of text.

Conclusions: Our videos are designed to serve two purposes: firstly, to provide stakeholders with key evidence they can use, and secondly, to link the viewer to the IWH website where they can read more information. Consultations with stakeholders on the key messages and video format are important. One-minute research video shorts are an effective means of disseminating key research findings.

Patient or healthcare consumer involvement: Health consumers from a variety of disciplines where involved in the content and video production.