1. A machine implemented method, comprising: storing at a storage device by a processor a data structure with information regarding a plurality of compatible software and hardware components configured to operate in a plurality of configurations as part of a storage solution for using resources at a networked storage environment for storing data, where the data structure stores information regarding relationships between a plurality of storage solutions using certain common hardware and software components; receiving a request for a compatible configuration; searching the data structure by the processor and providing a hint based on any existing relationship between components of the plurality of storage solutions and content of the request; and presenting the compatible configuration for using one or more resources of the networked storage environment.