POCO DataSet

POCO DataSet is a lightweight, extensible data container for .NET applications that need structured tabular data (tables / rows / columns) without the complexity and legacy constraints of System.Data.DataSet. It is built around plain C# objects (POCOs), clean separation between data and metadata, and predictable behavior that round-trips well throughh JSON.

Why it matters

• Lightweight and explicit - minimal concepts with no hidden behavior.
• POCO-first - easy to test, extend, and keep framework-agnostic.
• JSON-friendly - predictable serialization for client/server workflows.
• UI-agnostic but UI-friendly - a neutral data surface for Blazor, MVC, services, plugins, etc.
• Plays well with Entity Framework Core through the provided bridge.
• Connects to SQL Server through the provided SQL Data Adapter.
• Metadata-driven - supports dynamic UI generation and rule-based processing.

Who it is for

• .NET developers who need a clean tabular model without adopting a full ORM for every use case.
• Teams migrating from System.Data.DataSet to a modern, POCO-based approach.
• Applications with dynamic forms, grids, and search screens driven by schema / metadata.
• Modular / plugin architectures where data must cross boundaries in a neutral format.

Pick your path

If you are new, start with "Introduction" section. If you are implementing, go directly to "Quick start" or "API reference" section.

• Introduction
  What POCO DataSet is, where it fits, and why it exists.
• Concepts
  Design principles, mental model, and architectural foundations.
• Quick start
  Practical walkthroughs: NuGet packages and installation, SQL Data Adapter, EF Core bridge, changesets, and merge workflows.
• API references
  The complete technical reference (types and members).

 

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