Combining methods to conduct a systematic review and propose a conceptual and theoretical framework in socio-environmental research.

This study aims to present a combination of methods and propose robust theoretical and conceptual frameworks for solving socio-environmental issues. This proposal included the Problem, Intervention, Context, and Outcome (PICO) framework and Protocol and Reporting result with Search, Appraisal, Synthesis, and Analysis framework, and develop (PSALSAR) method through SODIP steps: (i) Systematic review and meta-analysis defining the study from guiding questions; (ii) Open-source related to software and data; (iii) Data visualization and design information; (iv) Identification of gaps, challenges and trends through automation and lexicometric analysis; and (v) Proposal of theoretical and conceptual frameworks. This proposal defines the steps as support to combine and systematize information necessary to facilitate the production of this type of document using open-access software in the visualization and design of information. All these steps are replicable and essential to propose a conceptual and theoretical framework to contribute to the construction of knowledge in socio-environmental research and to propose solutions by filling in the gaps. In summary, this combination of methods shows:•The use of SODIP steps provides robustness and efficiency in carrying out review studies, facilitating the way to propose theoretical or conceptual frameworks.•Choosing to use open-source tools is essential for better evaluation and visualization of qualitative and quantitative data in review studies.•The combination of methods and data in the systematic review (scientific, political documents. and databases) supports the proposal of robust theoretical and conceptual frameworks.