Provided is a method, system, and program for configuring multiple resources in a system. A plurality of elements are provided that are capable of configuring resources in the system, wherein each element specifies configuration parameters to use to configure instances of the resource. Each resource is capable of being configured by multiple elements that provide a different configuration of the resource. Service information is maintained indicating at least one performance and availability attribute of the configuration of the resource by the element. At least one administrator specified performance and availability attribute for a configuration is received. A determination is made of at least one element for each resource having service information indicating at least one performance and availability attribute that satisfies the at least one administrator specified performance and availability attribute. A determination is further made of resource instances capable of being configured by the determined elements. The determined elements are then used to configure the selected resource instances.