title: MS SQL Server, indicating VARBINARY(MAX) field's datatype in VB.NET
body: <p>So, I have this scenario where I use a VARBINARY(MAX) column, because I have no idea what is going to be put into it. All I know is that as of this point in time, the data will be one of many traditional data types(Integer, String, DateTime, etc.)</p>
  
  <p>I also have another column that is meant to indicate the DataType so the .NET application can handle the data and validate input accordingly.</p>
  
  <p>Right now, for testing, I have a DataType table in my database that stores the "supported" datatypes for the VARBINARY column, and a foreign key linking to the column meant to indicate the DataType. This works perfectly, but it feels akward.</p>
  
  <p>Given this scenario, what would some of you to to appropriately represent the type of data stored in the VARBINARY column?</p>