columncalled

Columncalled is a term used in data modeling and software design to describe a convention in which a database table or dataset includes a column whose values are names or identifiers of other columns. This enables dynamic referencing of columns within queries, transformations, or reporting logic without hard-coding specific column names in every step.

Origin and usage. The name itself is a straightforward blend of 'column' and 'called', signaling that this column stores the name of another column. It is encountered in discussions of metadata-driven schemas, spreadsheet automation, and data-pipeline design, where the goal is to adapt to shifting data structures without rewriting code.

Typical patterns. In a dataset with columns such as A, B, and C, a columncalled column may store the string 'B' to indicate that subsequent operations should apply to column B. In reporting, a separate columncalled field can map human-friendly labels to underlying data columns, enabling dynamic column selection in dashboards.

Limitations and alternatives. The columncalled pattern can introduce data integrity challenges and complicate indexing or query optimization. It is often paired with a metadata layer or a small mapping table to preserve referential integrity. Alternatives include explicit column mappings in code, or using schema-aware APIs that support dynamic selection through parameters rather than stored titles.

See also. Column (data), Metadata, Data schema, Data transformation.