Methods for determining whether to perform a stimulation treatment on a subterranean zone are disclosed. Process zone stress (“PZS”), indicative of a production potential of the subterranean zone, is determined, and a determination is made as to whether the PZS exceeds a preselected value. A PZS exceeding the preselected value may indicate a poor production potential, and a stimulation treatment of the subterranean zone may be avoided. As a result, a substantial cost saving associated with the avoided stimulation treatment may be realized.