Framework

Framework is the essential conceptual underlying structure comprised of the basic elements, their relationship, and rules necessary and sufficient to completely describe the system or concept. The purpose of a framework is to understand the concept and use it to make decisions.

It is important to understand the difference between a framework and a methodology. A framework defines the essential elements underlying a concept and a methodology details the implementation of a concept. In other words, a framework combined with a process is a methodology.

What is a framework in business?

A basic conceptional structure of ideas, rules, beliefs, principles, policies, etc. that organizes information around which something can be planned, decided, or built. A framework comprises related components or elements that together comprise the absolute minimum required to plan, decide, or build. A framework is a support structure or system that holds these parts together.

What are the Different Types of frameworks?

Therefore, frameworks can be divided into distinct types or categories by use:

• Planning Frameworks are used to manage processes
• Decision Frameworks are used to make decisions and can be thought of as governance aids as well
• Building Frameworks are frameworks used to create things - both literal and figurative - such as buildings and strategies

Frameworks can also be divided into three types or categories by design:

• The first type is the functional framework, which divides content into its function or purpose.
• The second type is a process framework, which breaks down how to do something from start to finish.
• The third type is an outcome-based framework, which defines what you want at the end of your project or goal.

A framework improves efficiency and productivity. The main goal of frameworks is not just what it does but how it makes it easier to build a practical solution from scratch without starting with a blank slate.

What are the Characteristics of a Good Framework?

A framework should be flexible, easy to use and implement, scalable as well as extendable in order to create the best product possible. A good framework has six characteristics:

It has a specific use

A framework should help organize information around one topic or question. Frameworks should not be general tools.

It helps to identify the necessary information and it filters out unnecessary information

What is the minimum that you need to know to make a good decision? A framework should supply this easily and without interference. Most information is unnecessary to the immediate task. Therefore, a framework should not be organizing it! A framework should not waste your time with irrelevant information.

It is simple to use

A simple framework speeds up analysis. The faster we can grasp a situation and how it is changing, the faster we can act and react. Simple frameworks give us speed and learning. It is also the case that complex frameworks simply are not used by very many people.

It provides useable insight

A framework is only as good as its insights. The relationships a framework helps you to identify should be ones on which users can have an effect. If a framework only ever helps you see what you and everybody else already know, then you do not really need that framework.

It encourages and rewards deeper learning

A simple framework can provide opportunities for deeper levels of understanding. While the most basic Dividers and Connectors Analysis provides a wealth of useful and useable information, Do No Harm has several additional pieces that can be explored to gain a greater and greater understanding of a context.

It encourages more effective communication

A framework should organize information so that the relationships are clear. This facilitates ease and rapidity of communication. A good framework can also introduce a common language and those who share it can understand each other and a situation even more rapidly.

Common Management Frameworks

A management framework is a set of principles and practices that help an organization to manage its resources. There are many different types of management frameworks such as:

1. Toyota Production System
2. Six Sigma
3. Lean Management
4. Cobit
5. Togaf

Why Use a Framework?

A framework provides an excellent starting point for a process. One doesn't have to start from scratch. A framework provides support and structure to the decision, plan, or thing it is used to build. Since it incorporates best practices, a framework enhances confidence in the outcomes of the process.

How to Use a Framework?

The most important thing to remember with a framework is to know when and where it is appropriate to use one. The right time for using a framework is when the problem is well-defined and the goal is to implement a solution. The wrong time for using a framework is when the problem is ill-defined and the decision process needs flexibility or customization.

• A framework is best implemented in multiple "do and learn" cycles
• It is critically important to have expertise in the framework before putting it to use
• A framework must be used in combination with metrics so outcomes can be measured and both the framework and process customized as needed
• A feedback loop is critical to a framework because it helps identify its shortcomings so appropriate customizations can be made
• A framework is NOT the answer; it is a tool that helps get to one

See Also

• Enterprise Architecture Framework
• IT Strategy Framework
• McKinsey 7S Framework
• 4S Web Marketing Mix Model
• Abowd and Beale Framework
• Adaptive Enterprise Framework (AEF)
• IT Governance Framework
• Value Measuring Methodology (VMM)
• Val IT Framework
• Rockart and Scott's Alignment Model
• Gartner's IT Strategy Model
• VRIO Framework
• Information Management Body of Knowledge (IMBOK)

References

• Definition of Framework
• Definition of Framework
• Definition of Software Framework