Logitech 3Dpro joystick and Belkin n52te setup
As a newcomer, I started by analyzing the various functions that can be bound and grokking how to fit it onto my existing setup - a Logitech Extreme3Dpro joystick and my trusty, old n52te.
It was quickly obvious that there is no real need for an expensive HOTAS
Using a simple setup with modifiers, I've managed to fit everything I consider relevant onto the two devices - with plenty of room to spare, should I need to bind more functions.
This is how my n52te is configured. The keys are mostly bound to the numerical keypad, like (1), (2), etc. Green is modified with LeftShift, red is modified with LeftAlt.
I have used LeftAlt for combat related functions (Altercation), and LeftShift for navigation and sensors. I've (so far) left most of the "standard" keybinds in place as alternates. Toggle UI on the main keyboard, has been moved to NumLock.
I have not used the two other keymaps on the n52, which are set up in much the same way, respectively bound to "1".."0" + "+" and F1..F11.
The joystick is bound like this: (Here green signifies functions modified with LeftAlt)

(Image by mcdee.net/elite)
As you may have guessed from the cropped image, I have no intention of using anything on the base of the joystick (Joy_7..Joy_12 keys and miniature throttle). The throttle has been moved to the (mouse) scroll wheel on the n52, using 12,5% increments.
I intend to use the mouse for the maps. I may later want to supplement with a power grid display, or two, for the less used functions, or for immersion.
Now, have I forgotten anything significant?