A method for optimizing data types includes the step of generating a data structure providing access to at least one data element, the data structure associated with a first representation of the at least one data element. A user is provided with a plurality of data types for accessing the at least one data element. A request for access to the at least one data element is received, the request including at least one of the plurality of data types. The request is responded to with a second representation of the at least one data element, the second representation generated responsive to the at least one of the plurality of data types.