Background:

Several indicators have been used to evaluate herd reproductive efficiency with serious limitations. Objective: To achieve a global index that integrates all the aspects of herd biorreproductive process, using a structure that facilitates application in any scenario.

Methods:

A global index of reproductive efficiency was created based on two partial indexes or basic components in cattle: growing females and births of cows, all interpreted thorugh deviation of values in relation to the unit (accomplished goal), using three levels of accreditation of desired reproductive efficiency. A simulation was performed to illustrate the utilization of the methodology suggested, in a 117-cow herd, of which 54 were nulliparous, with a mid accreditation level (age at first calving and calving intervals of 32 and 16 months, respectively), and monthly periodicity.

Results:

The values achieved in partial cow births (0.82), partial index of growing females (1.19), and global index of biorreproductive efficiency (1.01) indicated that the herd kept its levels of accreditation. This evaluation may also be added transversally and at any time unit used, or be seriated longitudinally, establishing a system of continuous improvement of herd biorreproductive efficiency, until reaching biologically permissible limits. Conclusions: A methodology is suggested to build a customized global index to evaluate herd biorreproductive efficiency and farmer performance.