In this article, Professor Marcus Munafò and Neil Jacobs discuss the current challenges to academic research. As research systems continue to incentivise 'eye-catching, noteworthy and impactful' findings, the accuracy of said research may be at stake. Munafò and Jacobs argue that systemic change is required to ensure research integrity. A spot-check strategy, as used in the manufacturing industry, could be one way of limiting human error.