An object framework is a rich, extensible, reusable network of collaborating objects. The Taligent operating system employs frameworks throughout, from the lowest levels of the operating system all the way up to application frameworks. The reuse opportunity inherent in these frameworks allows developers to reduce development time and cost. Extensibility allows developers to innovate in any part of the system. This paper illustrates the concepts and benefits of the framework approach to software architecture by examining a concrete example of a framework within the Taligent input/output system.