I hear you. That is exactly what the ugly notes box looks like. Problem is, I do not control the database format. It is canned software for 150+ users, currently a Pervasive database that we are upgrading to SQL.
My only connection is to batch update, saving the end users from manually keying in that exact type of data. In this case, sending items to a collection agency. Currently, our credit dept reviews a list, edits each client for 15-20 fields, controlling credit limit, status, what agency, etc, etc. This note field is info only, but still a valid item to be updated. I have the rest of it working smooth.
Wish I could control their format, but alas I cannot. There is also a long waiting this for this type of "upgrade" as well as a ridiculous fee. Believe me we store many items outside of "their" system to build in a more logic manner.
Any other ideas to control the field type?