1. A method, comprising: receiving, at a node, an indication from a user via a graphical user interface that the node is to establish a functional element template; receiving, at the node, a specification of one or more attributes for inclusion in the functional element template, wherein said specification of one or more attributes specifies at least one data-type, input-output-type or property-action type attribute; storing, at the node, the functional element template; and making available, at the node, the functional element template for selection on the node or at least one other node; and wherein the node comprises a computer.