Choosing appropriate manufacturing processes to create functional surfaces is a challenging issue for some industrials. A specific surface finish can be obtained by different manufacturing processes, each of them having a different economic impact. Currently, no tool could guarantee the surface function through the choice of a manufacturing process and its associated operating parameters. This paper aims at discussing about a framework of models for selecting conventional or innovative manufacturing processes and their associated parameters with regards to surface topographies and textures. To achieve this, a concept of decomposition of database is introduced. Manufacturing processes such as, electro discharge machining, water jet machining (used for texturing surfaces), sandblasting and laser cladding are modelled. Finally, a concept that links such a database with computer aided design (CAD) software in order to integrate surfaces functionalities and manufacturing processes directly into the design step is discussed.