Convert Simple Type Values to Text Using the New ToText Method in Business Central 2025.

Hi,

Introduction

Microsoft has introduced a new ToText method in Business Central 2025, making it easier to convert simple type values to text. This update simplifies data conversion, reducing the need for complex formatting functions like FORMAT in scenarios where basic type conversion is sufficient.

In this blog, we will explore the ToText method, supported data types, benefits, and use cases in Business Central AL development.

Business Value

Before this feature, developers relied on FORMAT to convert different types into text. While FORMAT provides advanced formatting capabilities, it can be overkill for simple conversions. The ToText method allows developers to convert values directly on the type, making the process more intuitive and efficient.

Feature Details

The ToText method is now available on the following simple types:

• BigInteger

• Boolean

• Byte

• Date

• DateTime

• Decimal

• Duration

• Guid

• Integer

• Label

• Time

• Version

This method provides a cleaner alternative to FORMAT when complex formatting is unnecessary. It enhances code readability and improves performance by avoiding unnecessary formatting logic.

How To Use the ToText Method

Example 1: Convert an Integer to Text

var
    MyInt: Integer;
    MyText: Text;
begin
    MyInt := 100;
    MyText := MyInt.ToText();
    Message(MyText); // Output: "100"
end;

Example 2: Convert a Boolean to Text

var
    IsActive: Boolean;
    StatusText: Text;
begin
    IsActive := true;
    StatusText := IsActive.ToText();
    Message(StatusText); // Output: "true"
end;

Example 3: Convert a Date to Text

var
    MyDate: Date;
    DateText: Text;
begin
    MyDate := Today;
    DateText := MyDate.ToText();
    Message(DateText); // Output: "2025-03-20" (Format may vary based on region)
end;

Benefits of Using ToText

✅ Simplifies Code – No need to call FORMAT for simple type conversions. 

✅ Improves Performance – Reduces overhead from complex formatting. 

✅ Increases Readability – Developers can directly call .ToText() on variables. 

✅ Avoids Unnecessary Formatting – Prevents formatting errors caused by locale settings.

Use Cases in Business Central Development

• Displaying dynamic values in pages or reports without extra formatting.

• Logging and debugging, where you need to quickly convert types to text.

• Data exports where simple type conversion is required.

Availability

The ToText method is available in Business Central 2025 (April 2025) for all users, including admins, makers, and developers.

Conclusion

The ToText method is a welcome addition to Business Central, allowing developers to write cleaner and more efficient AL code. If you are working with Business Central 2025 Wave 1, be sure to try out this new feature and streamline your type conversions!

💡 What are your thoughts on this new feature? Let us know in the comments below or on our social media channels!

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 Saurav Dhyani

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