Table 1 Framework for assessing the included studies

1) Problem definition and goal-setting

Method for defining the initial problem or research question

Purpose of the mapping process

2) Participant involvement

Participant recruitment and selection

Types of participants involved

3) Structure of the mapping process

Process of building the systems map

Identification of leverage points

4) Validation of the systems map

Method of validation after the map has been built

5) Evaluation of the mapping process

Timing of evaluation

Method of evaluation

Benefits and limitations arising through evaluation