What is the purpose of validation rules in Salesforce?

The purpose of validation rules in Salesforce is to ensure that the data entered into the system meets specific criteria before it can be saved. This is crucial for maintaining data integrity, as it prevents users from entering incorrect or inconsistent data that could later lead to errors or misinterpretations. Validation rules can be designed to check for conditions such as required fields, specific formats, or data ranges, ensuring that any data saved in Salesforce adheres to the defined standards.

By implementing these rules, organizations can enforce business logic and ensure quality control, which is essential for accurate reporting and effective decision-making. This functionality helps safeguard the system against potential mistakes that could arise from manual data entry, ultimately supporting better data management practices and user accountability.