RE: [PHP] Sorting table columns dynamically on normalized MySQL tables

[snip] I can do that, but is there a better way? How do you all handle dynamic sorting of normalized DBs? [/snip] Normalization has no effect on sort order where any DB is concerned. Sort order is determined in the sort clause in the query. So if you want to sort by location and you are using MySQL your ORDER BY clause should be location....(regardless of joins) SELECT foo FROM bar ORDER BY location returns course instructor location Science Bill Elementary School Basket Weaving Dave High School Math Dave Middle School Biology Jessica Middle School The results with course as the sort qualifier course instructor location Basket Weaving Dave High School Biology Jessica Middle School Math Dave Middle School Science Bill Elementary School You have over-compicated a simple issue