Typed Datasets: A First Step to .NET Flexibility : Page 3

Flexibility Makes Work Worthwhile

• The typed dataset isn't restricted to a table or even multiple tables. It can handle an XML file or even a text file by using a DataAdapter rather than a TableAdapter.
• You can create a typed dataset that allows you to update several related tables simultaneously from a single user form.
• You can display and use calculated values, even a value based on a column within the same record.
• The typed dataset simplifies your job because it's a reusable object. Drag it onto a form and it waits for you to determine the bound object instead of providing a default object.
• You can use multiple typed datasets on a form to handle related data, such as customers and orders.

If you want powerful and flexible interface objects such as a tab control with subforms on each tab page and on popups, build your own objects on a typed dataset. At first, the process isn't intuitive, but the advantages they offer are worth the extra effort.