1. A system for providing a user interface for use with a node in a telecommunications system, comprising: (A) a set of XML meta-data definition files describing a plurality of system objects which together form a representation of the node of the telecommunications system, which files enforce a set of rules to be followed; (B) an XML based hierarchy file that determines the order of creation of each system object; and (C) a client software engine configured to provide a graphical user interface which displays selected system objects and allows attributes of said objects to be edited in accordance with the set of rules of said meta-data definition files.