In any disease control or eradication programme, decisions have to be made on the basis of information. If this information is faulty or biased, there is a greater likelihood that incorrect decisions will be made. The key to any programme, therefore, is to develop an efficient surveillance system, from which summarized data provides the best information available on progress or lack thereof towards stated goals. These guidelines have been prepared with that aim. They have been developed from reviewing both programmes in countries that have successfully controlled and eradicated Brucellosis as well as those countries or regions where the disease is still not under control. A somewhat ‘generic’ approach has been taken and it is emphasized that what has been successful in one country may not necessarily be successful in another, unless it is modified to suit local conditions and animal management systems.