Genuine question: to what extent does the Medium Boost Pilot, in its current incarnation and with its reach at present, tend to encourage just such a 'churn-'em-out-by-numbers' approach, paradoxically contrary to its stated aims?

Because if the distribution system means that unless you (a) have 10,000+ followers, 500+ subscribers or (b) get boosted then your stories will wither on the vine, and both the Boost Directive and individual nominating editors tend to trot out a list of features they expect to see in 'boostworthy' stories, then I see a real danger that this is precisely what will occur. And know from my own experience and that of fellow writers this is indeed the case.

Write a piece that fulfils the criteria.

See it overlooked.

Churn out another just to have a chance at non-negligible distribution and earnings, even if that's not where your passion or inclination lies at that time. Forge a lottery ticket, in a way.

Yes, we are in control of our own response to those perceived incentives. But we are also trying to create a meaningful and productive framework for ourselves on this platform, despite the ever-rising (unabated and largely unaddressed) tide of artificially generated honeycomb filler.

Just a thought in response to the idea of making time for true creativity in the context of this platform.