The big problem with frameworks is when people aren't explicit about the Why. Here are the 8 key jobs of frameworks. Be explicit with why you're using a framework, and things become easier.

1. Teaching Aid

Some frameworks are designed primarily as teaching tools to convey concepts and provide structured learning.

Example: A team uses Opportunity Solution Trees to teach decomposition and structured thinking about solution options. Once they get the knack of it, they may no longer need the trees.

2. Shared Language

Frameworks provide a common vocabulary that helps people communicate complex (and/or contextual) ideas more efficiently.

Example: A leadership team adopts OKRs so that different departments can align on what "Objectives" and "Key Results" mean across the company. It's like a common interface.

3. Job Aid

Some frameworks help structure an activity and guide you through the steps rather than just teaching concepts.

Example: A growth team follows an Experiment Design Framework to structure A/B tests, ensuring clear hypotheses and measurable outcomes. Do they need the framework? No. But it helps structure their thinking.

4. Shared Process

By using the same framework, people can collaborate more effectively with a common approach or workflow.

Example: A strategy team uses Ritual Dissent as a structured process for critique, where teams present ideas and receive systematic feedback. Ritual Dissent allows diverse people to "plug in" in to the activity.

5. Conversation Prop

Some frameworks act as conversational shortcuts, allowing people to reference a concept quickly to move discussions along.

Example: A manager uses The Eisenhower Matrix in a discussion to quickly frame a task as "urgent but not important," helping the team delegate more effectively. Yes, it is oversimplified. But the prompt might be just right to keep the meeting moving.

6. Legitimization Tool

Some frameworks provide credibility not just for decisions but also for actions and overall approaches, helping teams justify why they work in a certain way.

Example: A product leader introduces Working Backwards—Amazon’s process of starting with a press release and FAQ—to gain buy-in for more rigorous product thinking. Since Amazon does it, executives take it seriously, making it a good Trojan horse for improving discovery and strategic alignment.

7. Boundary Object / Interface

Some frameworks act as a bridge between different groups that may not fully share the same language/perspective, allowing them to interact and collaborate despite their differences.

Example: A product manager introduces JTBD so that product, marketing, and sales teams can collaborate using a shared model of customer needs.

8. Sensemaking Aid

Some frameworks help people break down and organize complex or ambiguous situations to make sense of them.

Example: A strategy team uses Wardley Mapping to understand how their industry is evolving and where to focus their investments.