Thanks a lot for such a detailed answer, Michael.
I guess I have to realize that we need all the tools we can get... MoI is great and I love the simplicity combined with the power of the results but things like Max modifiers are very useful especially for me, a non-experienced user and with everyday need for corrections and changes.
2D tools are important too, so AutoCAD will never die...
My only problem is the money for all this software... My clients never understand I have to keep my tools up to date, my PCs too.
So, as everyone else, I try to use the less apps possible.