Compile fails - no error message

[pilsdumps]

I have a solution containing 21 projects that has been working fine for a while. However, I've changed something and now compile fails.

The problem is that there is no error created in the Error List so I haven't the faintest idea how to fix it. I suspect it's something to do with a missing or corrupt reference, but without systematically removing the projects, reworking the other references (they use project refs) I can't see how I can identify the problem project.

Can anyone tell me how I can identify the problem project? The Output window doesn't seem to help, other than telling me one project failed. Any ideas?

Thanks

 

[Hack]

I don't suppose you know what it was that you changed, or have a backup back to when it was working do you?

 

[pilsdumps]

Yes, I've restored from a backup.

I think I've identified what the problem was. One of the projects provides methods to load resources from a dll. I was trying to load a resource into a base user control, and derive a new one from this. It was failing with a null reference and hence not compiling. Seems a bit poor that the output window can tell you that a projects failed, but not where and why.

Do you know where I could have acquired this information from? Its incredibly frustrating to be told somethings failed, but to be given no idea why....!

 

[Hack]

Do you have Option Strict turned on in your project?

 

[pilsdumps]

No. Not sure I see what you're getting at....

 

[Hack]

Option Strict On does an outstanding job of pointing out errors and exactly where they are occurring.

Admittedly, some of the error descriptions leave a bit to be desired, but I've never once had to wonder where the error was coming from.

 

[pilsdumps]

Fair point. I'll turn it on and see if it helps - once I've waded through the list of issues of course....