Encoding schemes are methods used to convert data into a specific format for efficient storage and transmission. They ensure that information can be accurately represented and understood by different systems. Common examples include ASCII for text representation and UTF-8, which supports a wider range of characters from various languages. These schemes play a crucial role in computer science and telecommunications, as they help maintain data integrity and compatibility across different platforms. By using encoding schemes, developers can ensure that data is correctly interpreted, whether it's for web pages, email, or other digital communications.