How to properly organize the database of custom elements edited by the user?

Question

Qt

Hello!
At work, I maintain software that draws some system of elements. For example, a user using an editor adds a pipe to the system and sets its parameters. Then he attaches a sensor or valve to it, and so on. It's all visualized. The downside is that the elements of the system are rigidly specified in the code, i.e. You can't add a new element without a programmer. I would like to get away from this. I see a solution by organizing a base of elements. Ideally, this base should contain elements that can be drawn in one picture (for example, a sensor). The database will be edited by a responsible person and distributed separately from the program. Please tell me if I am thinking correctly? Maybe there is another way out? Are there examples of such things? What nuances and pitfalls can be encountered? Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Factory + plugins - standard solution