A method for implementing a front-end user sort request includes receiving a list request, decomposing the list request and creating a sort entry object using a list of column values initially retrieved from a data storage medium. A sort routine is performed on at least a first column of the list of column values in the sort entry object, wherein a compare function of the sort routine is dependent upon information obtained from decomposing the list request. The list request is rebuilt in accordance with the completion of the sort routine.