The real value of pre-boarding is ensuring one gets enough overhead storage space for what is brought onboard (somewhat lessened, thank gawd, by new tighter restrictions). The real issue I have is with those same "businessmen" (and I use the gender specifically, guys) who insist on stowing their multi-cases in the overheads at the front of the cabin, and then move on down to take their seats at the middle or rear! Where do they expect those of us seated in the front to put our cases? At least pre-boarding gives me a chance at having access to the space over my seat, though not all the time, I'm afraid.