Meta-synthesis Approach Research Articles

Factors affecting coaching in higher education: a meta-synthesis approach

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to identify and investigate which factors affect coaching in higher education.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed a qualitative meta-synthesis method. Based on the seven-step method (Sandelowski and Barroso, 2006), articles related to coaching in higher education were searched in five databases between 2012 and 2022. After step-by-step reviews and implementation of the critical evaluation skills program, 34 articles were selected from 1,711 sources.FindingsFollowing the analysis of 58 obtained codes, seven sub-themes and three themes were extracted. The results showed that the key factors affecting coaching in higher education include individual (personal skills, personal attitudes, personal behaviors), structural (environmental contexts, organizational contexts), and managerial factors (planning actions, supporting actions).Practical implicationsThe present study provides a framework for policy-making, implementation, evaluation and development of coaching programs in universities and provides a great help and support for planners and administrators of higher education institutions who want to design and implement coaching for the first time.Originality/valueThe presented factors provide effective information to higher education institutions so that they can offer coaching intervention more efficiently and help them allocate resources in a more efficient and strategic manner.

Institutionalism in Higher Education: Indicators and Enactment from the Swiss and Saudi Prospective

Background: The Saudi higher education system is going through continuous reforms to achieve the goals set by the kingdom’s Vision 2030. To support these reforms, we research the concept of institutionalism by looking into its indicators comparatively between the Swiss and the Saudi higher education systems. Methods: A thematic analysis was performed to identify institutional indicators in organizational practices. A qualitative meta-synthesis approach was then used to identify contributions of these indicators using the PRISMA method. Results: 20 institutional indicators were identified. The contribution of these indicators was narratively synthesized from 199 studies and categorized into 7 main themes. Enactment of these indicators was present in the Swiss Federal Act in a ratio of 17:20, in comparison to a ratio of 5:20 in the Saudi higher education Order. Conclusion: Institutionalism was not found to be strongly built in the Saudi Higher Education Order.

How Do People Who Undergo Ketamine Treatment for a Psychiatric Problem Subjectively Experience This Intervention? A Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Studies.

Ketamine treatment has shown promising effects for different mental disorders. Yet, little is known on how people who receive ketamine for a psychiatric problem subjectively experience undergoing this intervention. We conducted a systematic literature search to identify relevant qualitative research on the first-person experience of undergoing ketamine treatment in a psychiatric context. 24 eligible studies were identified and analysed using a thematic meta-synthesis approach. Three main themes were identified. First, 'The Ketamine treatment experience can be understood as a three-stage journey with unique clinical features at each stage'. Second, 'The subjective experience of acute ketamine treatment is multifaceted and complex'. Third, 'Ketamine treatment can have different positive effects-but what happens if it does not work?'. In summary, the subjective experience of receiving ketamine treatment for a psychiatric problem can be understood as a journey whereby patients move towards, then undergo, and eventually depart from ketamine. Before treatment, the experiential focus lies on expectations, hopes, and feelings towards the drug. During treatment, the drug's multifaceted psychotropic effects and how they are emotionally appraised become central to experience. Once treatment is finished, the focus is on the presence or absence of clinically relevant effects. The conceptual framework we propose can guide further qualitative research on this topic and aid mental health professionals to better understand the experience of patients who undergo ketamine treatment for a psychiatric problem.

Education for a Sustainable Future: Analysis of Universitiesvision and Mission Statements in Line With Global Sustainable development Goals

Objective: The objective of this study is to analyze the vision and mission statements of universities in the context of their alignment with the Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to provide insights for strategic direction development in higher education institutions. Theoretical Reference: This study is grounded in strategic planning theory and its application within higher education, focusing on how institutional vision and mission statements can guide universities towards sustainable development. Method: A meta-synthesis approach is employed, synthesizing findings from multiple qualitative studies. Data collection includes a comprehensive literature review on higher education trends, best practices, and challenges, along with document analysis of vision and mission statements from various universities. Thematic analysis is utilized to identify key themes, trends, and challenges. Results and Conclusion: Key findings reveal current trends such as digitalization, globalization, and the integration of technology in teaching and learning. Emerging challenges include financial sustainability, accountability, and alignment with labor market demands. Best practices in vision and mission development emphasize stakeholder engagement, alignment with institutional values, concise and inspirational language, and adaptability to changing circumstances. The proposed vision and mission statements for the state university reflect aspirations for global recognition, interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, entrepreneurship, ethical leadership, and fostering sustainable and inclusive communities. Implications of Research: The study underscores the importance of strategic planning and innovation in higher education. Engaging stakeholders and fostering collaboration are identified as critical strategies for addressing the highlighted challenges. These findings provide evidence-based recommendations for the state university's strategic direction, ensuring it remains adaptive, resilient, and aligned with both global and national goals. Originality/Value: This research offers a novel synthesis of qualitative studies on strategic planning in higher education, providing valuable insights into effective vision and mission development. It contributes to the discourse on aligning university strategies with global sustainability objectives, offering practical recommendations for higher education leaders.

P-396 Comparison of luteal support protocols in fresh IVF/ICSI cycles: A network meta-analysis

Abstract Study question What is the optimal LPS in fresh cycles in agonist and antagonist cycles? Summary answer Vaginal progesterone, with the addition of SCGnRH-a results in improved clinical pregnancy and live birth events in both GnRH-agonist and antagonist ovarian stimulation protocols. What is known already Despite the proven superiority of various Luteal Phase Support protocols (LPS) over placebo in view of improved pregnancy rates in fresh cycles of IVF (in vitro fertilization) and ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) cycles, there is ongoing controversy over specific LPS protocol selection, dosage, and duration. Study design, size, duration Network Meta-analysis. Twelve databases, namely Embase (OVID), MEDLINE (R) (OVID), GlobalHealth (Archive), GlobalHealth, Health and Psychosocial Instruments, Maternity & Infant Care Database (MIDIRS), APA PsycTests, ClinicalTrials.gov, HMIC Health Management Information Consortium, CENTRAL, Web of Science, Scopus and two prospective registers, MedRxiv, Research Square were searched from inception to Aug.1st, 2023.The study was prospectively registered under the PROSPERO database. Participants/materials, setting, methods Only RCTs were included. Primary outcomes included clinical pregnancy and live birth events, while secondary outcomes included biochemical pregnancy, miscarriage, multiple pregnancy and OHSS events. Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) model was employed for outcome analysis, presenting fixed effects, odds ratios (ORs) with 95% credibility intervals (CrIs). Vaginal Progesterone (VP) was considered the reference LPS for the purposes of the NMA given its’ clinical relevance. Main results and the role of chance Seventy-six RCTs, comparing 22 interventions, and including 26536 participants were included in the present NMA.Combinatorial regimens, with subcutaneous GnRH-a (SCGnRH-a) on a vaginal progesterone base and oral oestrogen (OE) appeared to overall improve clinical pregnancy events; VP+OE+SCGnRH-a [OR 1.57 (95% CrI 1.11 to 2.22)], VP+SCGnRH-a [OR 1.28 (95% CrI 1.05 to 1.55)] as well as live pregnancy events, VP+OE+SCGnRH-a [OR 8.81 (95% CrI 2.35 to 39.1)], VP+SCGnRH-a [OR 1.76 (95% CrI 1.45 to 2.15)]. Equally, the progesterone free LPS, intramuscular human chorionic gonadotrophin, [OR 9.67 (95%CrI 2.34, 73.2)] was also found to increase live birth events, however was also associated with an increased probability of ovarian hyperstimulation, [OR 1.64 (95%CrI 0.75, 3.71)]. Of all LPS protocols, VP+SC GnRH-a was found to significantly reduce miscarriage events, OR 0.54 (95% CrI 0.37 to 0.80). Subgroup analysis according to ovarian stimulation (OS) protocol revealed that the optimal LPS across both long and short OS, taking into account increase in live birth and reduction in miscarriage as well as OHSS events, was VP+SCGnRH-a, with an OR 2.89 [95%CrI 1.08, 2.96] and OR 2.84 [95%CrI 1.35, 6.26] respectively. Limitations, reasons for caution Given the anticipated diversity of measured outcomes, a Bayesian meta-synthesis approach has been adopted to account for the expected heterogeneity and to incorporate modelling flexibility by allowing for posterior distributions interpreted as SUCRA probabilities with the later enabling crisper communication of the uncertainty in the treatment effects estimates. Wider implications of the findings Overall, NMA data suggest that combinatorial treatments, with the addition of SCGnRH-a on a VP base result in improved clinical pregnancy and live birth events in both GnRH-agonist and antagonist ovarian stimulation protocols. Trial registration number Not applicable

A meta-Ethnography on Parents’ Experiences of the Internet As a Source of Health Information

The Internet is increasingly being used as a health information resource. This meta-ethnography aimed to synthesize the literature on how parents of children aged below 5 years’ experienced using the Internet for health information purposes. We employed an interpretive meta-synthesis approach—meta-ethnography—according to Noblit & Hare’s seven phases. A total of 22 articles met the inclusion criteria, representing four continents and with 650 participants, mainly mothers. We analysed and synthesized the primary studies into the following lines-of-argument synthesis representing a novel conceptual understanding of the phenomenon: Parents experience the Internet as “A cyber partner for child caring” being a 24/7 available “go-to” among other confined sources. Parents find ways of “patching together” trustworthy information in solicitude for their child’s health while navigating between trust and anxiety. They relate online and share their experiences and secrets without being rejected. Clinicians and parents may benefit from “partnering” with this resource.

Systematic Review of Lean Management: Hospital Transformation for Increasing Operational Efficiency and Patient Care

Background: One of places that providing health services is a hospital which provides comprehensive health services. Therefore, one of the benchmarks that hospitals facing is to always maintain consumer trust by improving quality of services so that consumers’ satisfaction significantly increases. In this research, Lean Management has become a more popular approach in various industries including the health sector such as hospitals. Objectives: To learn about lean management in hospitals such as how to implement lean management and find out the efficiency of lean management in hospitals. Research Method: A systematic review that used a qualitative meta-synthesis approach based on the results of similar studies. Results: The impacts of lean management on the quality of hospital’s health services were found. Conclusion: The context of transformation for the hospital. Implementing lean management has a significant impact on various aspects, from operational efficiency to service quality. Applying its management allows hospitals to proactively identify areas where improvement is needed, thereby ensuring that high standards of services are maintained.

Providing an innovative model for social customer relationship management: Meta synthesis approach

Social Customer Relationship Management (SCRM) has revolutionized the interaction between companies and customers, creating new opportunities and challenges for both parties. This study aims to present an innovative model for identifying the dimensions and components of SCRM. The data were collected based on a qualitative research design utilizing the meta-synthesis method, following the seven steps outlined by Sandelowski and Barroso (2007). Considering the relevance to the research topic and the quality of sources, 31 studies were selected for the final evaluation. To assess the reliability of the findings, the kappa coefficient for inter-coder agreement was used, resulting in a kappa value of 0.79. The results, analyzed using MAXQDA20 software, 2 dimensions, 6 categories, and 16 concepts identified. The company-focused dimension included 3 categories: factors influencing adoption, inhibitors, and outcomes of implementation. Similarly, the customer-focused dimension identified 3 categories: factors influencing adoption, inhibitors, and outcomes of implementation. Ultimately, a comprehensive model for SCRM was developed. The results of this research can be utilized by academic references as well as companies and consumers.

Institutionalization of Sports for All in Iranian Families

Background: The institutionalization of sports in families plays a significant role in promoting the health of society. This study is aimed to extract effective background factors in institutionalizing sports in Iranian families. Methods: The present research follows an interpretive paradigm, inductive logic, and qualitative approach. Besides meta-synthesis approach and interviews were conducted. The research population of the present study included 166 national and international articles presented over the last twelve-year period. After screening the articles, 15 studies were finally selected which met the necessary criteria and were analyzed using the content analysis technique. In the next step, an interview was conducted with 23 experts in "public sports" in a targeted manner using the snowball and theoretical saturation techniques, and finally, the codes of the first and second stages were combined. Results: Meta-synthesis results led to the identification of 36 indices, the overlap of the codes was compared, and the results showed a reliability of 0.92 After the interview was conducted, 41 indices were identified. The comparison of the results in two time periods showed a reliability of 0.89. Finally, by latent content analysis, summarizing, overlapping, and merging the codes of the previous two steps, 47 influential indices affecting the institutionalization of sports in Iranian families were extracted. Conclusion: Based on the results of our research it can be concluded that by recognizing, planning, and creating mechanisms for the operationalization of the discovered factors, the process of institutionalizing physical activity in Iranian families will be facilitated.

The State of the Empirical Evidence for Interdisciplinary Learning Outcomes in Higher Education: A Systematic Review

Abstract: This review systematically synthesizes empirical evidence on learning outcomes of interdisciplinary learning. A meta-synthesis approach was used to synthesize data in two rounds, based on strict (n = 38) versus more lenient (n = 60) operationalizations of interdisciplinary learning. The results revealed a variety of interdisciplinary learning outcomes that were categorized into three overarching themes: 1) academic and disciplinary engagement, 2) metacognitive skills, and 3) perspective taking skills. Process results revealed that empirical evidence in the field is still in its infancy. The findings of this review can be considered as a starting point for the further operationalization of interdisciplinary learning outcomes, so that robust evidence for various aspects of interdisciplinary learning can be collected, and compared with other forms of learning such as cross or transdisciplinary learning.

Investigating resistance to IT projects: a conceptual model from a meta-synthesis approach

PurposeThe study aims to drive conceptual clarity around resistance to information technology projects, integrating multiple facets of the phenomenon from earlier studies.Design/methodology/approachThe study conducts a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies on resistance to technology projects; it analyzes those studies at a case-specific level, compares and contrasts emergent concepts against each other, and “translates” those to the rest of the studies. The study uses the seven-step meta-ethnography method by Noblit and Hare to reciprocally translate emergent concepts to construct the conceptual model.FindingsThrough meta-synthesis, the study derives a new conceptual model for resistance to information technology projects, exemplifying how the identified antecedents create user resistance and how the phenomenon progresses within organizations.Research limitations/implicationsThis study enriches the observations and conclusions of past individual studies while explicating various facets of the mechanisms that generate and progress technology resistance within organizations. It offers fresh insights into the equivocal nature of the phenomenon and the distinctive ways it progresses from individual to group level.Practical implicationsMany ambitious and costly digital transformation efforts do not succeed due to user resistance. Understanding the mechanisms that create user resistance can help organizations manage technology projects better, thereby reducing the technology assimilation gap and protecting returns on related investments.Originality/valueThere have been extensive studies on technology acceptance (enablers) within organizations, while those relating to technology inhibitors are somewhat limited. However, the symmetry of understanding between enablers and inhibitors is vital for organizations to assimilate promising technologies and transform their business models. This model uses a new lens of sensemaking theory to explain how the antecedents trigger perceived threats and resistance behavior; it highlights the nuances around the development of resistance within individuals and its progression to groups. The resultant model offers better generalizability in organizational contexts.

Uncovering the landscape of cross-national UK education research: an exploratory review

ABSTRACT Background Internationally, research comparing education systems across countries and jurisdictions is valuable and can elicit nuanced insights into how particular systems operate. This paper’s interest lies in considering the scope and content of research comparing education systems across the four UK nations (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales). Purpose This study sought to determine the coverage of UK cross-national comparative education research (‘home international’ research) between 2000 and 2022. We chose this time period as 1999 marks the devolution of education policy to each UK nation. We aimed to investigate what educational issues had been discussed in the literature and identify any gaps in the content covered by the research. Method An exploratory, high-level review of ‘home international’ education research was conducted, based on the review of abstracts. We searched several research databases using a variety of keyword combinations to identify relevant literature published since 2000. Our search identified 53 studies that met our selection criteria. Using a meta-synthesis approach, we coded the content of each abstract to build a picture of the range and thematic coverage of research involving comparisons between at least two of the four UK nations. Findings The analysis of abstracts identified that, over the last two decades, UK ‘home international’ research has tended to include comparisons of all four nations, coverage of multiple educational phases and a focus on national education policy reviews. Furthermore, we pinpointed a number of gaps in coverage that might not have been anticipated (e.g. relatively little cross-national research focusing on assessment). Conclusion This high-level review uncovers the landscape of recent ‘home international’ research, allowing us to view issues that are driving the cross-national research agenda in the UK and recognise implications relevant to education systems that may resonate with jurisdictions beyond these four UK nations.

Composite Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence in Women: A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis

ABSTRACT This study explored the composite experiences of women subjected to intimate partner violence (IPV) by applying a qualitative meta-synthesis approach. A systematic review identified 44 studies, conducted across 27 countries from 1996 to 2022, for inclusion in the analysis. Three core themes emerged characterizing the comprehensive experiences of women enduring IPV: 1) experiencing violence as a form of ownership, 2) feeling powerless in a society that condones violence, and 3) suffering oppression in a male-dominated society. The findings predominantly reflect a feminist perspective, suggesting that IPV stems from patriarchal structures that perpetuate male dominance, power, and control over women.

Identification of Factors Affecting the Performance of Development Banks Using a Meta-Synthesis Approach

Identification of Factors Affecting the Performance of Development Banks Using a Meta-Synthesis Approach

Securing the future of IoT-healthcare systems: A meta-synthesis of mandatory security requirements

IntroductionHealthcare-based Internet of Things (Healthcare-IoT) is a turning point in the development of health information systems. This emerging trend significantly contributes to enhancing users' awareness of their health, ultimately leading to an extension in life expectancy. Security and privacy are among the greatest challenges for H-IoT systems. To establish complete safety and security in these systems, the implementation of mandatory security requirements is imperative. For this reason, this study identifies the necessary security requirements for H-IoT systems using a Meta-Synthesis approach. MethodsInitially, following the Seven-Stage Sandelowski & Barroso approach, the existing literature was searched in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Among the 844 extracted articles from the period of 2010 to 2020, 78 final articles were reviewed and analyzed, leading to the identification of 51 security requirements. Subsequently, to assess the quality of the identified requirements and their overlap, interviews were conducted with two experts. ResultsFinally, 14 security requirements, predominantly with technical and quantitative aspects, were identified for designing a Healthcare-IoT system and implementing security mechanisms. ConclusionThe findings of this study emphasize that addressing the identified 14 security requirements is crucial for safeguarding Healthcare-IoT systems and ensuring their robustness in the evolving health information landscape.

Narrative synthesis of the effectiveness and characteristics of heart failure disease self-management support programmes.

A deeper understanding of the key elements that should be included in heart failure (HF) disease self-management support (DSMS) programmes is crucial to enhance programme effectiveness and applicability to diverse settings. We investigated the characteristics and effectiveness of DSMS programmes designed to improve survival and decrease acute care readmissions for people with HF and determine the generalizability and applicability of the evidence to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). A narrative meta-synthesis approach was used, and systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of DSMS programmes were included. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, MEDLINE, and Embase were searched without language restriction and guided by the adapted Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Eight high-quality systematic reviews were identified representing 250 studies, of which 138 were unique RCTs measuring the outcomes of interest. The findings revealed statistically significant reductions in HF readmissions [relative risk (RR) range 0.64-0.85, P<0.5, five out of six reviews], all-cause readmissions (RR range 0.85-0.95, P<0.5, five out of six reviews), and all-cause mortality (RR range 0.67-0.87, P<0.5, five out of five reviews). Overall, 44.2% (n=61) of RCTs reduced acute care readmission and improved survival. Studies were categorized according to intensity (low, moderate, moderate+, and high) based on the opportunity for immediate treatment of HF instability; 29.2% (14/48) of low-intensity, 63.6% (21/33) of moderate-intensity, 40% (6/15) of moderate+-intensity, and 47.6% (20/42) of high-intensity interventions were effective. Most effective programmes used moderate-intensity (39.4%, 48%, or 50%, respectively) or high-intensity (33.3%, 36%, and 43.7%, respectively) interventions. The majority of studies (90.6%) were conducted in high-income countries. Programmes that provided opportunities for early recognition and response to HF instability were more likely to reduce acute care readmission and enhance survival. Generalizability and applicability to LMICs are clearly limited. Tailoring HF DSMS programmes to accommodate cultural, resource, and environmental challenges requires careful consideration of intervention intensity, duration of follow-up, and feasibility in low-resource settings.

Bereaved parents’ perceptions of memory making: a qualitative meta-synthesis

ObjectiveThis study aims to investigate the experiences of parents who have experienced bereavement in their efforts to preserve memories of their deceased child.MethodsEmploying a qualitative meta-synthesis approach, this study systematically sought relevant qualitative literature by conducting searches across various electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Wiley, up until July 2023.ResultsNine studies are eligible for inclusion and included in the meta-synthesis. Three overarching categories are identified: (1) Affirming the Significance of Memory Making. (2) Best Practices in Memory Making. (3) Barriers to Effective Memory Making.ConclusionBereaved parents highly value the act of creating lasting memories, emphasizing its profound significance. While forming these memories, it is imperative to offer family-centered care and honor diverse preferences and needs. It is essential to offer effective support to parents, offering them a range of choices. Furthermore, a more comprehensive examination of memory-making practices is required to better understand their influence on parents’ recollections of their deceased child.

Applying a Meta-synthesis Approach to Present a Blended Learning Model for Talent Development

Background: With the rapid development of healthcare, traditional teaching has been unable to meet the learning needs of hospital staff training, which has led to talent development. With the development of Internet technology, blended learning seems to be a new available choice to solve the current predicament. However, the effectiveness of blended learning is still controversial. In addition, most studies have primarily evaluated the teaching effect unilaterally. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to apply a meta-synthesis approach to synthesize research on blended learning models for talent development in healthcare settings. By examining a body of evidence from peer-reviewed studies, the authors aimed to identify common elements of effective blended learning models applied to hospital employee training. This synthesis provided a foundation for developing a comprehensive blended learning model tailored to the specific needs of hospital employees. Methods: In this study, the meta-synthesis approach was used to synthesize qualitative evidence in relation to blended learning factors in talent development. A comprehensive search strategy was used to retrieve articles from ScienceDirect, Emerald, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus within 1990 to 2023. To find additional studies, the bibliographic search of included studies and review articles and a random search in Google Scholar, Research Gate, and Google were carried out. A total of 751 studies were identified. After reviewing the full text of the articles, 89 studies were selected. This review evaluated studies that explained blended learning and talent development among healthcare employees. Eighty-six studies were selected and included in the meta-synthesis process after critical appraisal using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program. Results: The findings consisted of the model’s dimensions, components, and indices. The five identified dimensions include specifying learning needs, learning campaign elements, learning proposal, content strategy, and facilitation model consisting of 22 components and 76 indices. Conclusions: The identification and application of the obtained components will allow the policymakers and managers of the health system field to replace the traditional training of employees with blended learning, culminating in employee talent development.

Health Care Professionals' Views on the Use of Passive Sensing, AI, and Machine Learning in Mental Health Care: Systematic Review With Meta-Synthesis.

Mental health difficulties are highly prevalent worldwide. Passive sensing technologies and applied artificial intelligence (AI) methods can provide an innovative means of supporting the management of mental health problems and enhancing the quality of care. However, the views of stakeholders are important in understanding the potential barriers to and facilitators of their implementation. This study aims to review, critically appraise, and synthesize qualitative findings relating to the views of mental health care professionals on the use of passive sensing and AI in mental health care. A systematic search of qualitative studies was performed using 4 databases. A meta-synthesis approach was used, whereby studies were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis approach within a critical realist epistemological framework. Overall, 10 studies met the eligibility criteria. The 3 main themes were uses of passive sensing and AI in clinical practice, barriers to and facilitators of use in practice, and consequences for service users. A total of 5 subthemes were identified: barriers, facilitators, empowerment, risk to well-being, and data privacy and protection issues. Although clinicians are open-minded about the use of passive sensing and AI in mental health care, important factors to consider are service user well-being, clinician workloads, and therapeutic relationships. Service users and clinicians must be involved in the development of digital technologies and systems to ensure ease of use. The development of, and training in, clear policies and guidelines on the use of passive sensing and AI in mental health care, including risk management and data security procedures, will also be key to facilitating clinician engagement. The means for clinicians and service users to provide feedback on how the use of passive sensing and AI in practice is being received should also be considered. PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42022331698; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=331698.

Digital marketing increases competitiveness of msmes in the city of Gorontalo

The significant increase in the use of digital technology, especially through digital marketing strategies, has become a major catalyst in changing the global business landscape. This research aims to investigate how Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Gorontalo City can utilize digital marketing to increase their competitiveness. By understanding the challenges and opportunities faced by MSMEs at the local level, this research uses scientific study methods with a qualitative metasynthesis approach. The research results show that the use of digital marketing has a positive impact on MSMEs in Gorontalo City. Online marketing strategies, such as promotions through social media and online buying and selling platforms, not only increase product sales but also expand product visibility and fame. Even though there are obstacles such as intense online competition and a lack of understanding of MSME players about digital marketing, outreach, training and mentoring activities have succeeded in increasing their understanding and skills.