Define "SAML Assertion".

A SAML Assertion is a crucial component of the Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML), which is widely used for exchanging authentication and authorization data between parties, particularly in scenarios involving Single Sign-On (SSO). When a user tries to access a service, the SAML Assertion is generated by an Identity Provider (IdP) and sent to a Service Provider (SP). This assertion contains significant details about the user's identity and privileges, including information on whether the user has successfully authenticated and what resources they are permitted to access.

The assertion typically includes elements such as the subject (the user), conditions of authentication, and authorization data that dictate access rights. This enables systems to make informed decisions about granting access without requiring the user to log in multiple times or share their credentials with different services.

In contrast, choices related to report formatting tools, dashboards, or data model outlines do not reflect the purpose or functionality of SAML Assertions, as these options pertain to different aspects of the Salesforce ecosystem unrelated to authentication and authorization processes.