System and method for developing software programs by way of multiple applications and users

A system and method are disclosed for developing programs for operating industrial processes. The system includes an operator interface, and a computer coupled to the operator interface, where the computer includes a memory and a processor. The memory stores a first program and information concerning a plurality of templates within at least one library and a plurality of objects within at least one project that is representative of the at least one industrial process. The processor is configured to execute the first program to process information stored within the memory so that the processed, stored information can be operated upon by a second program. The first program is capable of performing at least one of (1) determining an identity of one of the second program and a third program that was employed to generate the information, and (2) selecting portions of the stored information for use by the second program.