Controlling the bovine estrous cycle is a necessity if performing fixed-time artificial insemination or embryo transfer. Addition­ally, irrespective of the genetic objectives driving the decision to use reproductive technologies, the use of synchronization protocols often has beneficial effects on the overall reproduc­tive performance and commercial production output of a beef cattle operation. This proceedings paper provides a general review of the conceptual goals and challenges associated with synchronization of estrus, and directs readers to resources on current protocols and emerging opportunities in the field.