A computer-implemented method of generating an inspection program for a computer-controlled coordinate measuring probe comprises the steps of: (a) receiving nominal geometry data for a component, (b) receiving inspection requirement data specifying one or more selected shape characteristics of the component, (c) determining from the nominal geometry data and the inspection requirement data an inspection path for a computer-controlled coordinate measuring probe, the inspection path enabling the measuring probe to measure actual component coordinates associated with the selected shape characteristics, and (d) generating an inspection program for moving the computer-controlled coordinate measuring probe along the inspection path.