What the future holds is hazardous to predict and invites speculation but some trends are apparent. There will be increased emphasis on traits important for: (1) increasing output/input on a herd rather than individual basis, (2) specialized herds or breeds and (3) utilizing hybrid vigor. Evaluation criteria will be based on more discriminating classification than the customary dairy or beef. Classifications will include consideration of produce, market, breeding system and management system. Specialization will increase in commercial production and seedstock production. Breeds will emphasize selection goals for either sire lines or dam lines or both but in different herds, i.e., emphasis will shift from general purpose to special purpose cattle for both breeds and for breeders. F1's will become recognized and merchandized similarly to registered purebreds. Purebred associations will embrace the F1 and may introduce genes from exotic and dairy sources to broaden their genetic base and to enhance speed of specialization.