Abstract: A system and computer program product for analyzing a load capacity of a composite member are provided. The system includes devices or modules for receiving model data that is characteristic of a configuration and load condition of a structural member and material data that is characteristic of material properties of a material of the structural member. The model data is analyzed to generate analysis data including strain tensors for a plurality of nodes of the structural member. Enhanced analysis data is generated, including a critical strain invariant value representative of a material of the structural member. The enhanced analysis data is further analyzed according to a strain invariant failure theory to generate results data representative of load conditions that result in damage instability in the structural member and a likely location, direction, and/or path of progression of the instability.