I think the biggest missing link that many people are not seeing is the 'social value' and the capital of having friends and connections on this platform. Quality comments go equally far as quality posts in connecting with others, which is the REAL value of this network
I've elaborated on my views toward Steem marketing and social capital here: https://steemit.com/value/@spookypooky/posts-on-steemit-aren-t-valuable
Let me know what you think of it, I've seen the discussion pop up in MANY threads and posts over the past days and I think it's a very adequate topic to discuss deeply.
Social capital is exactly what I meant.