Usability evaluation has long been a cornerstone of human-computer interaction (HCI) research, helping designers and developers ensure that their products are easy to use and meet the needs of their intended users. However, according to a paper by Greenberg and Buxton (2008), this approach may not always be the best way to assess the usability of a system.

In their paper, titled "Usability Evaluation Considered Harmful (Some of the Time)", Greenberg and Buxton argue that traditional usability evaluation methods such as heuristic evaluation and user testing may not always provide the most accurate or meaningful insights into a system's usability. They suggest that other methods, such as participatory design and ethnography, may be more effective in certain contexts.

One of the main issues with traditional usability evaluation methods, according to Greenberg and Buxton, is that they often focus on surface-level usability issues such as navigation and interface design, rather than deeper issues related to the user's goals, motivations, and context. This can result in "false positives", where a system may score well on a usability test but still fail to meet the user's needs in practice.

In contrast, participatory design and ethnography involve working closely with users throughout the design process, allowing designers to gain a deeper understanding of their needs and preferences. This approach can lead to more meaningful insights into how a system will be used in real-world contexts, and can help designers identify and address issues that may not have been apparent through traditional usability evaluation methods.

Of course, Greenberg and Buxton aren't suggesting that usability evaluation should be abandoned entirely. Rather, they argue that it should be used in conjunction with other methods, and that designers should be aware of its limitations. By combining usability evaluation with other approaches such as participatory design and ethnography, designers can gain a more complete picture of a system's usability and ensure that it truly meets the needs of its users.

In conclusion, while usability evaluation has long been a valuable tool for assessing the usability of computer systems, it may not always be the best approach. By combining traditional usability evaluation methods with other approaches such as participatory design and ethnography, designers can gain a more holistic understanding of their users' needs and preferences, and create products that truly meet their users' needs.