What role does data validation play in the conversion process?

Data validation is a crucial process in ensuring that the data being used in a conversion meets specific, predefined standards and formats. This involves verifying that input data adheres to the correct types, ranges, and formats necessary for the subsequent processing or storage. For example, if an application requires dates in a certain format (e.g., YYYY-MM-DD) or numerical inputs within a specific range, data validation helps to confirm that any incoming data aligns with these requirements before it is processed further.

By enforcing these standards, data validation helps to maintain data integrity, avoid errors during processing, and enhance the overall quality of the data being handled. This can significantly reduce the likelihood of issues that would arise from invalid or incorrectly formatted data, ensuring a smoother and more reliable conversion process.