In analysing metal forming processes the deformation mechanism map (elastic-plastic, elastic-viscoplastic, or creep type behaviour) for a particular process is commonly built solely in relation to temperature; which can be acceptable for a defined modest strain rate range. However, for a given temperature, if strain rate variation is large, the deformation mechanism could vary significantly. In this paper, a deformation mechanism map is proposed to clarify the interacting effect of deformation conditions (temperature and strain rate) on workpiece behaviour in metal forming processes. Rate type deformation equations which can be used to comprehensively model the effect of temperature and strain rate on deformation mechanism characteristics are elucidated and as examples, determined for Ti–6Al–4V and Al–Mg alloy.