CODE is a software framework for control and observation in distributed environments. The basic functionality of the framework allows a user to observe a distributed set of resources, services, and applications. A user can also use the framework to manage distributed resources, services, and applications. The components that allow measurements to be made and actions to be performed are modular and a small set are provided with the framework. Users can also write their own measurement and action components or use ones that are provide by 3rd parties.