Research is critical for the legitimacy of business schools. 2014 will be a period of change and choice for business schools’ staff leading on research.  As one REF submission is completed, many will seek  new challenges. But what kind of research effort will they be leading? Taking themes from the Thorpe and Rawlinson  Innovation and Growth Report, May 2013, and with student recruitment increasingly competitive, research standing and recognition through the Research Excellence Framework has never been more important to an institution's reputation and relevance. Business schools are uniquely positioned to face the challenges posed by a sensitive postgraduate market, highly responsive to reputation, rankings and perceptions. The ABS Annual Research Conference 2014 provides a business critical forum for senior management to prepare and adapt to the new academic landscape.