Consistency checks are procedures used to ensure that data remains accurate and reliable over time. They involve comparing data points against established standards or previous records to identify any discrepancies. For example, a database might perform consistency checks to verify that the same customer information appears uniformly across different tables. These checks are crucial in various fields, including software development and data analysis, as they help maintain data integrity. By regularly conducting consistency checks, organizations can detect errors early, prevent data corruption, and ensure that their systems function correctly, ultimately leading to better decision-making.