The data type doesn't matter in my framework because whatever is returned to the browser is used for display only or in some cases indicate success or failure of an operation, so I just use strings. Your concerned with data types because you are trying to apply logic using ADO.not. I apply my logic inside VFP. After all, everything is running on the server anyway, so why not leverage the power of VFP for validation and data access logic? Its only a method call away.

Charlie