The text discusses the concept and importance of data contracts in modern data management, highlighting how they can mitigate data quality issues by formalizing interactions between different systems and teams. Drawing an analogy with software development, where well-defined interfaces allow for error detection at compile-time, the author argues that similar mechanisms are necessary for data systems to prevent disruptions caused by schema changes. The increasing complexity, integration, and real-time requirements of analytical data underscore the need for such contracts, as they help ensure consistency and reliability, much like APIs do for web services. By providing structured, predictable interfaces to data, data contracts can prevent errors and facilitate smoother transitions when changes occur, ultimately safeguarding against costly production errors and improving overall data quality.