Data encoding is the process of converting information into a specific format for efficient storage, transmission, or processing. This transformation allows data to be represented in a way that can be easily understood by computers and other devices. For example, text can be encoded using formats like ASCII or UTF-8, which assign unique numerical values to characters, enabling consistent communication between systems. Different types of data, such as images, audio, and video, also require encoding to ensure they can be properly stored and played back. Formats like JPEG for images and MP3 for audio compress the data, reducing file size while maintaining quality. This encoding is essential for effective data management and sharing across various platforms.