Before going into the background of challenges imposed by modern laser technology on coated optical components, this letter reviews the major aspects of coating production and control. Current deposition techniques and characterisation methods for high power optical components applied in modern laser systems are summarised and discussed. In this context, methods are considered especially for the precise control of the spectral transfer properties of optical coatings during production. Also, a short review is presented regarding laser damage in optical coatings and the corresponding measurement techniques. In addition, the outlook includes recent developments in laser technology and corresponding trends in thin film production.