From a business perspective (and probably his), what additional value is gained from having street performers or training CMs to be authentic SW “citizens”? Not much. It is purely an added expense, with little opportunity to capture additional revenue.
From a guest’s perspective, what is the additional value? I would say it is impossible to measure! Imagine all the memories to be made from “authentic” CM interactions - all of the potential for pixie dust (or should we call it star dust in SW:GE?) and spontaneous moments. And this is what SHOULD set Disney Parks apart from other theme parks.
Choosing to invest in technology and interactive elements and having that available for opening is a good thing, and really, a smart decision. But, as you all have said, choosing to invest in the people and atmosphere of the land will be the smart decision for the long term, and I hope it comes to pass.
Personally, I felt like Pandora (the land itself) over-promised and WAY under-delivered. FOP is arguably one of the best rides in all Disney parks, but what happened to all of the interactive elements and plants that were promised? Remember the cool patents we saw as the land was being built; the promise of sensory-related technology? There are a few that exist on a small scale, but they don’t always work. I hope that SW:GE doesn’t go that same route.