Before you commit time, money, or energy to new work, it makes sense to first understand what’s already out there. Reviewing existing evidence can help clarify whether a question has already been answered, what the limitations of current understanding are, and where real gaps or opportunities lie.
At Research Well, we offer a range of review services that help make sense of the existing landscape—whether you’re preparing to design a new programme, develop policy, apply for funding, or shape a strategic direction. These services are delivered in a format that suits your needs, from concise summaries to full technical reports.
Why it matters
Evidence reviews aren’t just for academics. Done well, they can save time, reduce duplication, and give confidence that your next steps are grounded in what’s already known. They can help you:
• Test assumptions and avoid blind spots
• Build consensus across a team or partnership
• Strengthen funding proposals
• Identify practical next steps based on insight, not guesswork
Whether you need a fast overview or something more formal, we can tailor the scope and format to your project.
Our Review Options
Scoping Review
Ideal when you’re at the early stages of an idea. This option gives a fast, clear picture of what is already known about your topic. We provide a concise, accessible summary that outlines key sources, themes, and gaps—helpful for briefing teams, informing planning meetings, or preparing for funding bids.
How this has been used by past clients: A charity exploring a new family support programme used a scoping review to understand what models had been used in similar contexts and what evidence existed for their success.
Detailed Review
A more in-depth investigation, suitable when you need a stronger foundation. We gather and examine relevant sources more thoroughly, helping identify patterns, inconsistencies, and underexplored areas. The final report includes a summary, structured findings, and recommendations for action or further research.
How this has been used by past clients: A local authority planning a review of early years services used this format to better understand what had worked elsewhere, and what evidence supported those approaches.
Systematic Review
Designed for situations where rigor and comprehensiveness are key. We apply transparent, methodical processes to search, assess, and synthesise evidence from academic and grey literature. This option is best suited to those needing a formal evidence base for publication, policy, or strategic investment.
How this has been used by past clients: A national public health organisation commissioned a systematic review to assess the long-term impact of multidisciplinary pain management programmes, using the findings to inform national guidance.
What we can offer
• A tailored approach that meets your timeline, audience, and format needs
• Clarity about the strength and relevance of existing evidence
• Practical summaries that are easy to share with teams or stakeholders
• Support at every stage, from question framing to reporting
To discuss further how we can meet your evidence gathering and analysis needs please get in touch via the contact box below
Research Well 