framework
n. countablen. a basic structure that holds something together or supports it. You often use this word to talk about a set of rules or ideas that help you plan or understand something bigger.
n. a supporting structure around which something can be built. In abstract contexts, it refers to a set of principles, rules, or ideas used as a basis for making judgments or developing a system.
The team uses a simple framework for making decisions.
The new treaty provides a legal framework for countries to resolve their trade disputes peacefully.
By establishing a theoretical framework early in the research process, the scientists ensured that their subsequent data collection would remain focused and methodologically sound.
From frame + work.
Often followed by the preposition 'for' or 'of' to specify the system being supported.