# Frameworks

Use Frameworks to create structured reference data in SureCloud.

A framework contains levels, shared attributes, and items.

Use it for structures such as business units, policy libraries, or control sets.

{% hint style="info" %}
You need a role with custom hierarchy permissions to manage frameworks.

If you cannot open this area, contact your SureCloud administrator.
{% endhint %}

Manage frameworks from **Settings** > **Custom Hierarchy**.

### Create a framework

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Open Custom Hierarchy

Go to **Settings** and open **Custom Hierarchy**.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Select Add Hierarchy

Select **Add Hierarchy** below the table.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Open the framework

Select the navigation icon next to the new framework to start configuring it.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

### Update framework details

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Open the Details tab

Open the framework you want to update.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Enter the main details

Complete the main settings:

* **Hierarchy Name:** The name shown to users.
* **Description:** Optional context for the framework.
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

### Add levels

Levels define the structure of the framework.

For example, you might use levels such as **Domain**, **Category**, and **Sub-category**.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Open Levels

Open the **Levels** tab.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Add a level

Select **Add a Level**.

Enter the name for each level you need.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

### Add attributes

Attributes store extra information against every item in the framework.

For example, you might add **Owner**, **Reference Code**, or **Review Date**.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Open Attributes

Open the **Attributes** tab.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Add an attribute

Select **Add New Attribute**.

Configure the attribute you want every framework item to use.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

### Add items

Items are the records inside the framework.

Each item sits at a level and can roll up under a parent item.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Open Items

Open the **Items** tab.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Select Add New Item

Select **Add New Item**.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Enter the item details

Complete the required fields:

* **ID:** A unique value for the item.
* **Name:** The label shown to users.
* **Parent:** The item above it in the structure.
* **Level:** The level this item belongs to.
* **Description:** Optional supporting detail.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Complete the attribute values

Enter values for any framework attributes you added.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}


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