There is no problem with the code. #include <iostream> 1. template< typename T> 2. std::string& toString(const T& data){ 3. std::stringstream num(std::stringstream::out); 4. num << data; 5. return run.c_str(); 6. } However, an error is triggered by line 3. This error started happening as soon as I added the GTKmm property sheet. If I remove the property sheet from the project, then the applicatin compiles without any problem. So, the problem is the gtkmm and not VC++ or the IDE in my Win7. Is there anyone here having the same problem?