Flow charts are frequently used to present a visual representation of a process and thereby help the user understand basic and complex concepts. In planning for storm water quality best management practices (BMPs), flow charts can be helpful in guiding users to selections based on conditions that are often less than obvious. Having a sound basis for selection related to actual site and soil conditions is important wherever treatment facilities are planned. The spatial and vertical variability of urban soils, as well as anticipated nutrient, metal, and other chemical loading, can present special planning obstacles. While there is an emphasis on the compatibility of treatment practices with respect to site and soil conditions, there seems to be a continued need for additional resources that guide planners to selections that are truly compatible. Where nutrient, metal, and other chemical loading is of concern, multifunctional plant–soil system BMPs or a treatment train with two or more should be planned. The concepts presented here are a proposal for BMP planners, storm water regulators and the soil survey community to work more closely in addressing this need and to better ensure that constructed storm water quality BMPs function as intended.