Kevin,

I would not consider the investment in technology, in order to make one's business more efficient and competitive, to be giving in to the whims of VMs.  The ability to get things done is a big asset in this industry.

Anybody who refused to invest in a fax machine 25-30 years ago, in order to reduce turnaround by the length of time alotted for U.S. mail delivery, would soon have been grazing in the pasture.  The ability to adapt, in this case, is no different.  There are ways to improve service without compromising quality.

As for the idea of a work stoppage, I think the only thing that would accomplish would be a huge loss of customers...forever.