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Over the last two decades the term Additive Manufacturing (AM) has been developed, mainly originating from machines initially developed for rapid prototyping applications. Recent publications name AM as a potential paradigm shift in manufacturing. AM has been proven to increase manufacturing efficiency and generate an enhanced customer value through shorter lead times and a higher level of demand. While a general increase in number of AM machinery is predicted, the question inevitably arises whether certain processes are suitable for AM and if the potential benefit pays off the necessity of higher costs. The goal of this research is to identify important factors that determine the economic suitability of AM for manufacturing processes. The relevant factors are identified through a literature review of existing research which describes economic factors of AM and their inherent impact. From these factors an economic framework can be drawn, which supports the decision whether a manufacturing process should be designed traditionally or by utilizing AM. The framework is designed in an open way, so that an application in many scenarios seems possible. This study seeks to increase the understanding of economic factors of AM to allow engineering managers to make the best economical decision with respect to AM techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]