I certainly wouldn't say that the coming changes means "less customer oriented". It means just give status to customers who really bring money to the company. If you have status only thanks to promo points, do you think you really merit the status and the associated perks ? I understand it is nice to have but you have to consider things on the company perspective. And with the lower thresholds, I believe all the "real" gold and plat will be able to requalify as per the new scheme if their travel pattern remain the same with Accor.
As I said in the dedicated thread, I think this change is completely logical and was expected sooner or later.
This being said, I'm among the ones who also vote for a lifetime platinum membership.