A model to predict the conditions for printability is presented. The model focuses on crack prevention, as well as on avoiding the formation of defects such as keyholes, balls and lack of fusion. Crack prevention is ensured by controlling the solidification temperature range and path, as well as via quantifying its ability to resist thermal stresses upon solidification. Defect formation prevention is ensured by controlling the melt pool geometry and by taking into consideration the melting properties. The model’s core relies on thermodynamics and physical analysis to ensure optimal printability, and in turn offers key information for alloy design and selective laser melting process control. The model is shown to describe accurately defect formation of 316L austenitic stainless steels reported in the literature.