This document provides the strategic context that supports the value and role of research frameworks in fostering a coordinated research culture and embedding a research/evidence-based approach that underpins heritage management, regardless of the different political, legal, administrative and economic contexts of individual states. This includes supporting decision making and broadening public benefit to include social and communal values as well as the research dividend. The document is aimed at those people who are responsible for commissioning, funding or developing research frameworks. It can be used to support the creation of a business case for developing a research framework, and sets out the key principles that should be considered in doing so. This short document will be accompanied by a web resource later in 2024.