Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining an arrangement of components is disclosed. In accordance with a method of the invention, a number of components are arranged in a superior/inferior hierarchy. Sets of components are generated in accordance with the hierarchy of components. A first set of at least one component is selected and a determination is made as to whether the set of components satisfies a required set of characteristics. If the requirements are not satisfied, other non-inferior sets of components are evaluated. If the requirements are satisfied, other non-superior sets of components are evaluated. In one or more embodiments, each component has a total capacity and provides an amount of at least one individual resource.