What is a framework? Understanding their purpose, value, development and use

This article explores the development and application of frameworks in the sciences and the science-policy interface. While frameworks are valuable tools for synthesizing and communicating core concepts, their development and application are often vague and lack transparency. The article emphasizes the importance of positioning frameworks within a theory of science to understand their purpose and value. It introduces a meta-framework that visualizes the four mediating processes involved in framework development and application: empirical generalization, theoretical fitting, application, and hypothesizing. The article concludes by providing guiding points for scholars and policymakers using or developing frameworks in their research.