A method and system for detecting edge cracks of an element of a sheet metal product is provided. The method includes calculating a first stress associated with a forming process employing a first die; calculating a second stress associated with a finishing process employing a second die; combining the first stress and the second stress to formulate a total stress; simulating the sheet metal product to produce a benchmark stress; and comparing the total stress and the benchmark stress to determine if the element predictively contains edge cracks.