The purpose of a software framework is to provide developers with a foundational structure that simplifies and standardizes coding tasks. Frameworks offer pre-built components, libraries, and tools, allowing developers to focus on application-specific logic rather than repetitive setup tasks. This can accelerate the development process, improve code maintainability, and enforce best practices. By using a framework, teams can leverage existing solutions for common problems and foster collaboration through shared standards. Frameworks are prevalent in web development, software engineering, and enterprise applications, promoting efficient and scalable solutions.