DWAGENT, there definitely is more to being PLAT than you have experienced thus far!

I will have to say though, that a gentle nudge is often useful @ check-in.

The past couple stays in May(I made PLT in April), I found out from Flyer Talk that saying something along the lines of "what type of Platinum upgrade were you able to offer me today" is quite helpful.

It's kinda open-ended in that you will prob get one of three responses:

-If you already were upgraded, they would tell you.
-Otherwise, most agents will hunt for a suite for you and/or ask what type of upgrade you were looking for.
-And on rare occasions, I have read here on FT, the reservation does not reflect your proper status (ie, PLATINUM).

And yes, sometimes, all you will get is the room you have paid for(there are only so many suites). But always with club lounge benefits which imho is a decent breakfast and happy hour at most international properties.

Read the FAQ at the top for more info regarding Platinum status.

Finally, welcome to Flyertalk

And to get back on topic I am Plat-lite this year for the first time, all leisure!
Westin is my preferred flavor, Sheraton a close second. Really, lounge availability is the tie-breaker.