Abstract: A generic template node for developing and deploying model software packages made up of interconnected working nodes derived from modifying copies of a generic template node. In one embodiment, a generic template node comprises: a plurality of definable input and output channels; at least one modifiable process routine capable of executing instructions for integrating into the generic template node at least one of, (i) a custom process, (ii) a canned common function, e.g., Sum and/or Average, and (iii) a third-party software package; a setup routine; and a plurality of definable output channels. The setup routine is operably linked to a host process to perform setup initialization of the generic template node. The generic template node is executable using at least one processor in communication with at least one memory having instructions to modify the generic template node in response to user requests.