>>It may or may not be valid code. For example loRow("NoMember") in the example above is of type 'object' - which may or may not be convertible to an integer. If you want the compiler to use loRow("NoMember") as an int then, with Option Strict On, you need to explicitly cast:

If CInt(r("ColumnA")) > 0 Then..

Essentially, the compiler is pointing out that the code you have used may not work - if you know otherwise then it's up to you to cast.....
>
>Ok, so as I have this approach everywhere in every project, I don't see how I can switch that option ON for now.

You're right - maybe too much work to retrofit existing 'Strict Option Off' code - but still I good idea to have it 'ON' in future.....