A system and method for synchronizing and coordinating parallel, automated fault injection processes against storage area network arrays. In an exemplary embodiment, the stress test system includes a hierarchical lock file acting as a repository for lock and state data of storage area network resources. Further, such embodiment includes a plurality of knowledge sources communicatively coupled to the hierarchical lock file for monitoring activities of the storage area network resources and injecting faults. In addition, the system includes a controller for controlling access to the hierarchical lock file and coordinating activities of the plurality of knowledge sources. The plurality of knowledge sources are individual stress action words which are utilized by the hierarchical lock file to coordinate multiple, parallel stress tests against storage area network components without requiring modifications to the underlying code to be made.