The original question isn't there any more, but allow me to throw in my two cents' worth about Elite upgrades.

A lot depends on the physical attributes of the hotel. For example, some full-service Marriotts have nothing but identical, "cookie-room" rooms -- differentiated only by whether they have a king or two doubles, what floor they're on, what direction they face, and their proximity to the concierge lounge. But other full-service Marriotts were built with larger corner rooms or suites on every floor. The latter is in a better position to provide meaningful upgrades.

It also depends on the culture and policies of each hotel, as directed by the hotel's GM. Some hotels take upgrades seriously, pre-booking Elite guests into upgraded rooms a few days before check-in. Fostering the loyalty of frequent travelers through upgrades is good business. But it seems some hotels consider upgrades to be a nuisance.

It should also depend on the Elite level. Platinum Premier should have a higher upgrade priority than Platinum, which should have a higher upgrade priority than Gold, which should have a higher upgrade priority than guests without a published upgrade benefit (Silver, basic member, and non-member).

Finally, it depends on whether the hotel is able to sell the executive rooms, junior suites, and suites to paying customers. Such rooms would otherwise potentially go to Elite guests as upgrades.