What is the purpose of evaluation tools in web accessibility?

The purpose of evaluation tools in web accessibility is primarily to assess the accessibility of content. These tools are designed to analyze web pages and applications against established accessibility standards and guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). By using these tools, developers and designers can identify potential accessibility barriers that might affect users with disabilities, allowing them to make necessary adjustments to improve usability for all users.

Evaluation tools help in pinpointing specific elements of a webpage that may not meet accessibility criteria, like improper use of ARIA landmarks, insufficient color contrast, or missing alternative text for images. This assessment is critical because it provides actionable insights, enabling teams to ensure that digital content is inclusive and complies with legal and ethical accessibility standards.

In contrast, other options focus on different aspects of web development and user experience. While some tools may assist in user preference testing or provide design frameworks, their primary role is not to specifically evaluate accessibility measures, which is the central function of the evaluation tools in question.