Even though text is supported, the purpose of a value set control is to display choices as graphic images for faster selection. The user can see the selections instead of having to take time to read descriptions of the choices. Using graphic images in a value set also lets you conserve space on the display screen. For example, if you want to let a user choose from a variety of patterns, you can present those patterns as value set choices, If long strings of data are to be displayed as choices, radio buttons should be used. However, for small sets of numeric or textual information, you can use either a value set or radio buttons.
The value set is customizable to meet varying application requirements, while providing a user interface component that can be used easily to develop products that conform to the Common User Access (CUA) user interface guidelines. The application can specify different types of items, sizes, and orientations for its value sets, but the underlying function of the control remains the same. For a complete description of CUA value sets, refer to the SAA CUA Guide to User Interface Design and the SAA CUA Advanced Interface Design Reference.