Some critical control points for evaluation of heat detection are average days to first service and the distribution of days to first service among cows in the herd. Days to first service can be obtained from your DHIA records and the distribution can be simply summarized from the individual cow listing on the Reproductive Management Report. This is a specific, measurable, attainable, rewarding and timed goal. The time element can be determined by the manager. If a synchronization plan has been in place but few cows are identified in heat during the early portion of the breeding period then an action plan might be to determine if the cows are indeed cycling or if the heats are simply being missed.
Records can be a valuable tool to monitor performance and set goals or targets for improvement.