diff --git a/.github/ISSUE_TEMPLATES/research_task b/.github/ISSUE_TEMPLATES/research_task
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..393650a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.github/ISSUE_TEMPLATES/research_task
@@ -0,0 +1,26 @@
+---
+name: Research Request
+about: Use this template for work that is either stand alone or a part of a bigger project.
+title: Research Request- [Summary]
+labels: 'research request'
+assignees: ''
+---
+
+# Research Request
+
+Complete this issue to track work that is either stand alone or a smaller part of a bigger project.
+
+## Project Description
+* **Relevant PR** (if applicable):
+
+* **Question or Goal**: overarching goal of this issue
+
+* **Data Required**:
+  * Currently have:
+  * Need:
+
+* **Research Required**:
+
+* **Metrics**: what specific calculations are you looking to find?
+
+* **Expected Outputs / Findings**: what do you hope to have created when this is complete?
diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index f994297..40982bf 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -1,11 +1,8 @@
-# mkdocs-template
+# big-data-geoanalytics
 
-This is a template repository to enable rapid creation of documentation sites built using `mkdocs` and served via GitHub Pages
-under Cal-ITP's `docs.calitp.org` domain.
+This repository is as place for the analyses of the [Division of Data and Digital Services Big Data and GeoAnalytics Branch](https://dot.ca.gov/programs/planning-modal).
 
-Read more about how to use this template: <https://docs.calitp.org/mkdocs-template>.
-
-Create a new docs site from this template: <https://github.com/cal-itp/mkdocs-template/generate>.
+Analyses include data from Big Data platforms like Streetlight and Replica. Analysts, add a folder for here for your work!
 
 ## License