Using XML files to speed up setup

Has anyone got any examples of working practices with the use of XML files to speed setup.

I'm dipping my toes in but am wondering if there is a way of specifying what items should be shown and which ones hidden in the figure. I have tried the itemlists but this doesn't quite seem as easy as i'm imagining the base setup ought to be.

I also have outstanding questions regarding recipe files reference info with PTC tech support that don't seem to have an obvious answer yet.