Cambridge University decided to implement a research information system (CRIS) to collect and validate meta-data in order to comply with the UK REF requirements. This marked the foundation of a tool primarily based on publication meta-data. It assists to inform not only REF but other mandatory reporting requirements (e.g. RCUK via Researchfish or other Funder reporting requests). Due to the increased level of interoperability, the Cambridge CRIS is now capable of not only reporting retrospectively, but also to aid and inform academics and administrators in their day-to-day business. This paper exploits some examples based around interconnectivity, application of data standards and network analysis to showcase the increase in efficiency and sustainability in research information matters.