There are several ways to submit data to the American Angus Association. While most records are entered through the free online platform, AAA Login, members also use spreadsheets, Angus Information Management Software (AIMS) and — in some cases — paper forms.

How you choose to submit data often depends on how records are collected and stored within your operation. Herd size can also influence your approach. Some producers rely on traditional notebook-style record keeping, while others use fully integrated electronic systems. Ultimately, the best method is the one that works for your operation, and what matters most is that accurate records are being collected consistently.

Data submission methods

AAA Login
For many herds, AAA Login is the primary platform for submitting data. About 64% of weaning weights were entered through AAA Login in fiscal year 2025. If you use AAA Login, here are a few tips to help streamline your workflow: 

1. Creating animal sets in advance

Setting up animal sets before entering data can significantly reduce time spent searching through your herd. Animal sets allow you to work with a selected group rather than the entire herd.

For example, before submitting birth records, creating an animal set of dams in a specific calving group allows you to move efficiently down the list.

Animal sets can be reused for multiple purposes, including data submission, generating data sheets, and creating custom reports.
To create an animal set, go to AAA Login > My Herd > Animal Groups > Animal Sets.

2. Using sire groups

Creating sire groups when you are breeding or turning bulls out eliminates the need to go back and find the list of what bulls were used. In the updated Angus Mobile app, sire groups can be created in real time from the My Herd tab. 

After sire groups are created, they can be carried across breeding, calving and submitting DNA tests. 

To create an animal set, go to AAA Login > My Herd > Animal Groups > Sire Groups

3. Take advantage of field check boxes

Throughout AAA Login, check boxes next to certain data fields allow you to carry information forward from one animal to the next. These are available for fields such as sire group, birth date, sex, ET (embryo transfer) status and measurement dates. Using them can greatly speed up data entry.

4. Hold data in online cart

If you’re unable to complete data entry in one session, you can save your progress in the online cart. Your data will remain there for an extended period, allowing you to return and finish later.

Once all entries are complete, submit the entire group. The Association will notify you before any data in your cart expires.

Spreadsheets
Spreadsheets are the second most popular method for data submission. If you already use spreadsheets to collect or manage data, this option may be a natural fit.

Although submissions must use Association-provided templates (available through AAA Login), many members prefer spreadsheets because they allow for easy copying and pasting of data rather than reentering it.

A few tips for using spreadsheets:

1. Download the latest template

Always begin with the most current spreadsheet version from your AAA Login account. While templates do not change frequently, using the latest version helps prevent errors.

To find templates, go to Login > Submit Data > Spreadsheet Entry.

2. Combine spreadsheets with animal sets

Using animal sets when generating spreadsheets improves efficiency. Downloading a spreadsheet tied to an animal set prefills key identifying information, eliminating the need to reenter it.

You can then sort by tag number or other fields to quickly input additional data.

3. Upload and validate before submission 

A recent update to AAA Login allows you to upload your completed spreadsheet back into your account. This step helps identify and correct any issues before final submission, improving processing speed and accuracy.

After uploading, the data will appear in your cart and must be checked out to complete submission.

To upload a spreadsheet, go to Login > Submit Data > Spreadsheet Entry > Select Template > Follow link in yellow box.

No matter how your operation collects or manages records, the keys to successful data submission are choosing a method that fits your workflow and using the tools available to make the process more efficient. Whether you prefer working directly in AAA Login or leveraging spreadsheets, small steps such as organizing animal sets, creating sire groups, or validating data before submission, can save valuable time.

By taking advantage of these features and finding a system that works best for your herd, data submission can become a smoother, more streamlined part of your routine. Consistent, accurate record keeping not only supports your operation, but also strengthens the value of the data shared across the Association. 

Editor’s note: For more information, please contact the American Angus Association Member Services Department at 816-383-5100.