I have also experienced this issue at many Starwood hotels and do not understand why it is so prevalent, as it seems like such a simple fix. I like to use my laptop while sitting on the bed and like to use my phone(s) as alarm clocks -- doesn't seem like I am alone in these preferences

I have noticed some other chains (Marriott stands out) have done a better job of incorporating plugs into the lamps, providing two outlets anywhere that a lamp is located in a room. It is often not the most stylish option but more convenient / pleasant than crawling on the floor or having to unplug the clock / lamp

On the issue of technology, I have also noticed that Starwood tends to "lock the TV down" more - at Marriotts I have been able to use the HDMI out feature on my phone to stream Netflix directly to the hotel tv via an HDMI cable that I carry with me, but have found that Starwood hotels frequently "bolt" the back of the TV shut, preventing access to the HDMI In on the tv. I find this very frustrating and also disappointing in 2012