Why is user feedback critical during the accessibility evaluation process?

User feedback plays a vital role in the accessibility evaluation process because it enables evaluators to gain insights from real users who experience the interface firsthand, particularly those with disabilities. This feedback is essential to identify actual barriers encountered by users when navigating a website or application. Users can highlight specific challenges that may not be apparent to developers or evaluators who do not share the same accessibility needs.

Understanding these barriers is crucial for creating a more inclusive environment, as it informs designers and developers about practical areas needing improvement, allowing them to make adjustments that enhance usability for everyone. Consequently, this user-driven input leads to a more refined and user-friendly product. The information gathered from user feedback goes beyond theoretical assessments; it brings real-world experiences into the improvement process, ensuring that the web is accessible to all.