Framework

A framework is a basic structure consisting of a set of components that can be combined in a variety of designs within a set of defined architectures. The components are described in detail in a framework, but are not restricted on how they must be combined or used when designing a system or other functional entity. A framework may describe the characteristics of each component, which standards the components comply with, and provide examples of how they may be used. A framework is not intended to suffice as an architecture, a design, blueprints, or specifications of an entity that may be created from the described components.