What Is POCO DataSet?

POCO DataSet is a lightweight, modern, and extensible tabular data model for .NET applications. It provides a clean, POCO-based alternative to System.Data.DataSet, without legacy constraints, hidden behaviors, or heavy dependencies.

Core Components

• DataSet – a container for multiple named DataTables.
• DataTable – a logical table consisting of ColumnMetadata and DataRow collections.
• DataRow – a typed row storing values for each column.
• ColumnMetadata – schema information describing each column.

DataSet

A DataSet acts as the root container for related DataTables. Tables are stored under unique names, allowing structured data to be grouped and transported together. The DataSet does not impose relationships or behaviors—keeping the design clean, neutral, and purpose-driven.

DataTable

A DataTable consists of two main parts:

• ColumnMetadata – describing the schema.
• Rows – a collection of DataRow objects.

This design makes DataTables ideal for dynamic UI rendering, metadata-driven forms, and rule-based engines.

DataRow

A DataRow represents one logical row of data. Values are stored in typed structures matching the schema, providing predictable access by column name and reducing runtime errors.

ColumnMetadata

ColumnMetadata defines a table’s schema, including:

• Column name
• Data type
• Nullability
• Optional length, precision, or constraints
• Custom attributes for UI or validation

This metadata-driven structure enables UI frameworks, service layers, and rule engines to make dynamic decisions based on schema rather than hard-coded models.

Schema and Data Separation

POCO DataSet treats schema and data as separate but related concepts. This allows scenarios such as:

• Loading schema without loading data.
• Loading data when schema is already cached.
• Transporting schema and data together for UI generation.
• Versioning schema independently from row content.

Intended Use Cases

• Dynamic form generation (e.g., Blazor).
• Metadata-driven interfaces.
• Plugin-based systems or modular architecture.
• Search results or detail-view datasets.
• Server-to-client JSON roundtripping.

Table of Content POCO DataSet