We present the advantages of experimental design in the sensitivity analysis of optical coatings with a high number of layers by limited numbers of runs of the code. This methodology is effective in studying the uncertainties propagation, and to qualify the interactions between the layers. The results are illustrated by various types of filters and by the influence of two monitoring techniques on filter quality. The sensitivity analysis by experimental design of optical coatings is useful to assess the potential robustness of filters and give clues to study complex optronic systems.