I'm all for seeking the most effective solution, too.  No argument here.

And making a low res and a high res version is a great approach.

 

Still, what is the point of all the innovations like IDL, SSS and weightmapping if content creators still try to go by the lowest common denominator ?

Trying to "leave no user behind" is noble, but I think does more harm than good if you remove the incentives to keep up with progress.

At one point, you simply have to go by the Pirate code:

Those who fall behind, are left behind !

;-)