Since the Frameboard focuses on a frame – formulated as a temporary perspective on a determined issue – it is particularly useful to quickly explore the situation and iteratively envision alternatives or ideas to address the problem(s). ​​​​​​​

The Frameboard is applicable in diverse fields and offers the opportunity to visualise and understand a given problem by building an (iterative) overview of different frames. These frames are alternative ways of examining the situation, with different problems, ideas, and solutions. The frames are explained in slightly different ways to grasp the nuances for envisioning a comprehensive course of action. ​​​​​​​

The tool explicitly orients toward frames, seen as working hypothesis or temporary solutions. To that extent, a Frameboard allows for envisioning ideas and structure approaches in a quick and iterative manner. It serves the purpose to provide a visual and textual support to communicate, materialise and reflect on different frames that include both a holistic overview of the problem and a translation into solutions.   ​​​​​​​

The tool is intended for collective use, and it works best in a group setting. The collaboration of diverse stakeholders supports the purpose of collecting different ideas and perspectives of the frames and allows for diverse viewpoints on the relationship between the problem analysed and the possible solutions. Finally, the Frameboard can also act as a support for guiding the discussion between the stakeholder and for communicating the outputs. ​​​​​​​

The activity requires about two to three hours. The time dedicated to the tool strictly depends on the level of detail required and on the dimension of the working team. Moreover, the tool allows (and encourages) to explore multiple frames and can be used iteratively throughout the early phases of a project, to act as a baseline for prototyping activities. ​​​​​​​

There is not a precise need for evaluating the activity in itself; however, since the purpose of the tool is to be discussed, adjusted, and iterated upon, it can serve as a basis for further analysis with relevant stakeholders and for presenting the outcomes of the activity. ​​​​​​​

To get the most out of the tool, it is recommended to translate it in the local language and to encourage participants to experiment with both text and visual representation such as sketching and drawing when filling it. It is a simple and clear tool that may be used to direct both the framing process and the way one visualises and speaks to others. Additionally, it aids in organising the design process, which is extremely iterative and alternates between problem and solution. ​​​​​​​