Abstract The paper deals with an application of shadow measurement method and its importance in comparison with classical measurement by contact profilometer used for quality measurement of the surfaces created by abrasive waterjet technology. The main emphasis is put on the analysis of results for defining the process of creation of a new surface generated by the stream of abrasive waterjet, including its geometric parameters and mechanisms of cutting tool-material interaction. New possibilities for surface quality evaluation and optimization, the choice of technological parameters of the cutting process are developing. There are proposed measured parameters, the way of creating a database of values measured, the way of data statistical and analytical processing for optimising the technology, improving the quality of output control. By databank it could be theoretical based technology factors selection that will be optimal for the material on required quality, the performance parameters and the total machining economy.