Table 1 Adapted recommended-stages and project timeline

Stage 1: Preparation

 1

Identify the need for developing the STEP checklist based on a review of literature and documents

CT

✔

 2

Obtain funding for the STEP project

CT

✔

 3

Draft and register the protocol

CT; DP

✔

 4

Identify the participants and establish the STEP working group

CT

✔

✔

✔

Stage 2: Formulation

 5

Generate the draft of STEP checklist with a list of potential items

CT

✔

✔

 6

Conduct the  modified Delphi process

CT; DP

✔

✔

 7

Use the STEP checklist to evaluate a sample of policy briefs published in different languages

CT

✔

 8

Approve the final STEP checklist

CT

✔

 9

Develop the STEP statement and user manual

CT; DP

✔

✔

Stage 3: Implementation

10

Translate the STEP into other languages

CT; Relevant stakeholders

✔

11

Test reliability through real world use and update the guideline

CT; DP; Relevant stakeholders

Every 3–5 years