Sets

Learn how sets organize repeatable field groups, simplify complex configurations, and enable data aggregation across repeated elements in ServiceNow CPQ.

A set is a reusable, repeatable collection of fields that lets administrators define multiple instances of similar configuration data—such as multiple products, components, or options—in a single blueprint.

Each row in a set represents one instance of a repeated group of fields, and each field in that row behaves independently. sets streamline configuration design, reduce duplication, and support advanced use cases that require tabular or list-based inputs.

Administrators use sets to present configuration options in structured, table-like layouts that customers can easily edit in the end-user interface.

Sets are designed to:

• Simplify repeatable configurations. Instead of creating multiple fields and rules for each repetition, define once and reuse many times.
• Provide intuitive, tabular data entry. End users can add, remove, or edit multiple product instances in a structured grid.
• Support dynamic rules. Rules can reference values in the same row or aggregate data across all rows.
• Enable advanced reporting and summaries. Aggregates summarize field values across rows (for example, total quantity or total rack units).

How sets work

A set groups several configuration fields together and repeats that group for each item in the list.

Each set row is fully independent:

• Fields in the same row can affect other fields in that row.
• Fields in one row cannot directly affect fields in another row.
• Fields outside a set can influence fields inside it, but not vice versa.

To affect fields outside a set, use:

• Aggregates: Sum, count, average, maximum, or minimum values across all rows.
• Product rules: Define logic that sets external field values based on set data.

A set can contain up to 2,000 rows.

Display options

Sets can appear in the UI in several formats, depending on user experience requirements:

Table 1. Display options for sets

Display type	Description	Example use case
Table	Rows, columns, and cells with headers; ideal for detailed comparisons.	Configure multiple network devices.
List	Each row shown as a card; can support single-select or multi-select.	Select delivery slots or service packages.
Repeater	Displays one record at a time with navigation controls.	Edit configurations one-by-one in smaller layouts.

Administrators control layout, alignment, and scrolling in the layout editor.

Field relationships

Relationship	Behavior
Inside → Inside	Fields in the same row can trigger each other through rules.
Inside → Outside	Not allowed directly; use Aggregates or Product Rules.
Outside → Inside	Allowed. Rules or field actions outside a set can change set field values.

Key properties

Sets include several configuration categories that shape how users interact with the table or list:

• General settings: Orientation, maximum height, alignment, index labels.
• Display type: Choose between Table and List views.
• Inline settings: Show “Add Row” indicators, drop-down controls, or hover actions.
• Size settings: Manage how users increase or decrease set rows (numeric or slider field).
• Selection settings: Add single or multiple row selection with a Boolean selection field.
• Search settings: Allow users to search values in a set (for example, filter by available date).
• Message settings: Display validation messages or indicators in specific cells.

Managing set data

Sets support importing and exporting data in CSV format.

• Download set data: Exports only visible columns based on filters applied in the UI.
• Upload set data: Adds or updates rows in the set using a structured CSV file.
  • Rules run automatically on upload.
  • New rows are appended; matching rows are updated.
  • System-enforced limits apply (25 visible columns recommended).

Enable uploads/downloads by adding JSON properties in the set’s raw value:

{
  "uploadDetails": {
    "uploadButton": { "label": "Upload CSV", "visible": true },
    "downloadButton": { "label": "Download CSV", "visible": true }
  }
}

Scripting with sets

To reference sets in rules or scripts, use the following syntax:

Use case	Example syntax
Access the set	set.<setVarName>
Access an aggregate field	set.<setVarName>.<aggregateVarName>

For example:

if (set.networkDevices.totalRackUnits > 50) {
   field.requiresAdditionalCooling = true;
}

Related concepts

• Configure sets