How to convert from string to object of any type?

Question

I need to convert from string that contains data to object of some type that is passed using reflection. I have an not serializable object that contains properties of any type and I want to load data to that object, for example that object has a property Color BgColor when I am trying to set "Red" value to that property I get that conversion is not possible from string to Color, I need a general code. Thanks a lot

Answer 1

Try Convert.ChangeType for general conversions.

But in your case I think the Color.FromName method would be best:

Creates a Color structure from the specified name of a predefined color.

Answer 2

If all you need to do is convert a string to it's value in an enum, you can use code similar to the following:

public static T ToEnum<T>(this string original)
{
    Array values = Enum.GetValues(typeof(T));

    foreach (T value in values)
    {
        if (value.ToString().ToUpperInvariant() == original.ToUpperInvariant())
            return value;
    }

    throw new NotFoundException();
}

If you need to convert other types, then perhaps specifying types and the formats of the string might help people direct you better.

Answer 3

Consider Generalized Type Conversion

Answer 4

use Convert class