Most of the time, I go into the plug-ins and remove the PHP that does the template edit automatically, and copypasta the corresponding template where it is supposed to go, or wherever I want it to go. It makes it easier for me to troubleshoot, design around the hack, and other. If someone wants to do it automatically it doesn't really bother me personally. I see, and understand the points on both sides, but prefer to do the template edits manually. Just personal preference, and in the long run easier for me.

I do not provide modifications to teach people how to code/whatever, they are provided to add extra functionality to peoples forums.

I guess you won't be too happy about template hooks then ?