Strategy and business plan

Background 

Data is often locked away in lots of individual systems, across many different organisations, and isn’t in a format that makes access or integration easy. Researchers need to know what data is available, the quality of data, and how it can be accessed quickly. These are often difficult questions to answer, which means delaying – or even completely missing – the chance to save time, money and lives.  

If researchers lack quick and secure access to good quality data, the country lacks the insights to improve public policy and decision-making, and the public are less likely to benefit from new treatments and interventions that enhance their wellbeing. This is where RDS comes in.  

Our strategy 

We help to improve quality of life for people in Scotland by making it easier for decision-makers to base their insights on good quality evidence built on good quality data.

Our business plan  

Our 2025-2026 business plan focuses on RDS's work across four key areas: aligning approaches, building and demonstrating trustworthiness; shaping and delivering researcher services; unlocking Scotland’s data; and a sustainable system.

Our research strategy

Research is fundamental to what we do, and is reflected in the multidisciplinary capabilities of the RDS team. Read our research strategy to learn how we are helping to enable research that can help inform policy and improve lives.