I'm not sure I can think of a valid business case as to why you'd want to do that. From a programmatic perspective, you'd still need the type and, depending upon the type, the size of the field. If you know both sides of the system, there are myriad better methods to perform what you're asking.

My favorite part about the reader comments is how so many of them - confidently - misunderstand the code they're ripping apart. You don't get that much around here. Most of the posters are able to programmatically tie their shoes, so to speak.

I don't understand your post. There's no such thing as "Lean Software." As mentioned in the original post, Lean is a set of manufacturing practices emphasizing reduction of waste and just-in-time production. For example, one of this month's featured articles entitled "Is a featureless product in your future?" exemplifies Lean design. It describes the benefit and importance of waiting until a specification is obtained from the customer, and only once the customer's needs are fully understood, before creating anything.