🔗 Natural sorting in PostgreSQL: mastering custom collations

Sorting alphanumeric data usually follows character code points, which can lead to confusing results for numbers. This article reveals how to implement "natural" sorting in Postgres, allowing numbers to be sorted by value rather than code point. It explains creating custom collation objects using the CREATE COLLATION command, focusing on useful examples for numeric ordering. The author clarifies that collations determine the sort order of characters, specifically beneficial when handling alphanumeric strings. With insights about the ICU provider and locale definitions, this guide offers important context for when developers need to sort mixed data types effectively. The hands-on approach culminates in applying the collation to enhance the sorting syntax, making Postgres a powerful tool in better organizing data.