I totally understand why MW added exclusive models, it’s an incentive not to upload to other sites. However I think it’s a short sited view. One of the things that I love about 3D printing is the remix culture. Becasue the exclusive model license prohibits remixes it degrades that and encourages people to just scratch design a clone. Given a choice I will look for a CC licensed model over a standard license one.
I do have a couple of exclusive models but I don’t plan to publish more. I’m going back to CC BY SA NC all my new stuff.
However I do have one suggestion to improve things - allow remixable exclusive. That is a model that can be remixed but where the “share alike” provision requires remixes be shared on MW. That might meet both needs.
I think this is the old debate about optimization vs. standardization. Most users just want an easy-to-understand, one-stop-shop platform for their 3D printing needs. Having exclusive content grants this ‘walled garden’ effect that consumers love so much. I also understand your frustration; this should be about community. Perhaps the best solution in that case would be for creators to curate their own website in a ‘hypertext’ fashion, like the good old days