While this isn't exactly a Firebird question, it does pertain to a Firebird
database -

I need a way to process new sales orders, matching them with previous
orders shipped to the same address. Doing a direct comparison of address
does not work because of situations like this:

123 S. Main St
123 South Main St.

That is just the tip of the iceberg on how addresses can mean the same
thing but appear different.

I'm looking at a couple different solutions:

1. Use a soundex-type algorithm to generate an 'address code', and compare
this new code.
2. Implement a UDF that makes use of some commercial address verification
products.

I'm wondering whether anyone has tackled this particular problem with any
success, and what that solution turned out to be?

tia,

Bob M..