This article discusses how RADAR, the institutional repository (IR) at the Glasgow School of Art (GSA), has been modified to house an Annual Research Planning (ARP) template. A case study on the implementation of this research planning tool will outline the role that a repository and its staff can play in supporting individuals, enhancing processes and helping to reach strategic institutional goals in preparing for the next Research Excellence Framework (REF). The paper will also investigate how the extension of RADAR to incorporate Current Research Information System (CRIS) elements has led to increased user engagement, and has successfully demonstrated a new use for the repository beyond its scholarly communication function.