The function of a data pipeline is to automate the process of moving and transforming data from one or more sources to a target destination, usually for analysis or storage. Data pipelines consist of a series of steps, including data ingestion, processing, and loading. They enable organizations to handle large volumes of data efficiently and ensure that relevant information is readily available for decision-making. Additionally, well-designed data pipelines support data quality and integrity, crucial for producing accurate insights and facilitating analytics.