Is it possible in SQL Server to set collation on individual rows in a table (as opposed to by column, database or server)?
If not, perhaps does anyone know if this is a planned feature for SQL Server 2016?
The only problem this solves is curiosity between two colleagues.
Best Answer
No, you cannot tell SQL Server to collate different rows differently. Collation applies to the column, database, or instance.
Within a query, it is possible that you could apply different collation rules, e.g. for comparisons, using a
CASE
expression. Assuming you can add a column to indicate what collation should be used for that row.But this will not allow you to store data in different collations in the same column. If this is an actual need and not just some bet, you could consider some kind of EAV design, like: