My take is pretty simple. I agree that allowing both members to use AI functions and create games using commanders while they are on ladders does give them an advantage.
HOWEVER, I believe the advantage is very small and/or as MoD stated earlier, only beneficial to those in the lower parts of the ladder.
What I would recommend it 2 things:
- Make it so that you can not use AIs on ladder games.
This eliminates that problem and keeps the integrity of the ladder.
- Allow both members and non-members alike to create games using ladder templates.
This would be great both for members and non-members alike to create practice games for ladders more efficiently and easier at the click of a few buttons. Additionally, I think this would entice people to join ladders as well as raise the level of competition on the ladder, especially at the bottom end, thus making the first problem even less of an issue than it already is.
Just my 2 cents.