A resource manager generates a graphical user interface that enables a user to manage a configuration of the storage area network via a guided mode in which a graphical user interface displays a set of automatically generated operations to be performed by the user to execute a storage area network management function. The resource manager also can generate a graphical user interface also enables the user to manage configuration of the storage area network via an interactive mode in which the graphical user interface enables the user free navigation amongst storage area network resources and initiation of user-generated operations on the resources to execute the storage area network management function. In furtherance of executing the management function, the resource manager preserves state information of performed operations associated with the management function while the user switches between the guided mode and the interactive mode of the graphical user interface.