What is the purpose of "Staging Tables" in data loading processes?

Staging tables play a crucial role in the data loading processes by temporarily holding data for validation and transformation. When data is extracted and prepared for loading into the system, it often requires cleansing or modification to ensure accuracy and compliance with the destination's requirements. Staging tables provide a workspace where this data can be reviewed, transformed, and validated before it is permanently integrated into the main database.

The use of staging tables allows for better error handling and ensures that only validated and accurate data makes it to the final destination, reducing the risk of corrupting the production data. This approach also enhances performance during data loading, as operations can be performed in bulk on the staging tables without impacting the live environment.

In contrast to this, other options do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of staging tables. Staging tables are not meant to serve as a permanent storage solution, a final data destination, or meant primarily for data deletion. Their focus is specifically on temporary storage for the interim stages of data processing.