Framework

A framework is a basic conceptual structure used to solve or address complex issues. This very broad definition has allowed the term to be used as a buzzword, especially in a software context.

Framework can also refer to mechanical structures, such as scaffolding.

Framework for the Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements, winows item
The IASB's Framework for IFRS.

Conceptual framework
A conceptual framework is used in research to outline possible courses of action or to present a preferred and reliable approach to an idea or thought.

Software framework
A software framework is a re-usable design for a software system (or subsystem). A software framework may include support programs, code libraries, a scripting language, or other software to help develop and glue together the different components of a software project. Various parts of the framework may be exposed through an API.

Design framework
In engineering, architecture, drafting, publishing and web design a logical environment used to frame elements in a precise fashion. Failure of elements to conform in the framework is catastrophic.

A Framework is a semi completed application.

Management
It is a basic conceptual structure to allow homogenous handling of different business objects. I.e. business units (BU). It also increases Management discipline. It pre-defines common deliverables to and from each Business Object. A framework is a well defined tactic to, with simplicity, master the complex environment of an organization.

Scaffolding
Scaffolding is a temporary framework used to support people and material in the construction or repair of buildings and other large structures.

Scaffolding in Software Testing called writing stubs and drivers in integration testing.

Literature
The word framework is sometimes used to refer to the literary technique of the frame story or framing device.

Office suite
Framework, launched in 1984, was the first office suite to run on the original IBM PC under the MS-DOS operating system.

Buzzword
The word framework is used as a buzzword, in a variety of contexts. For example, the Java collections framework is not a software framework, but a library.