Ensuring that a data pipeline is flexible and can adapt to changing data requirements or sources is important for maintaining its relevance and effectiveness over time. Implementing a pipeline that is designed to be flexible, such as using configurable parameters and modular design, allows it to easily accommodate changes in data requirements or sources. Implementing a rigid pipeline or assuming that the data requirements and sources will not change can result in the pipeline becoming obsolete or unable to meet new requirements. Focusing only on optimizing performance without considering flexibility can limit the pipeline's ability to adapt to changing conditions.