There are just too many "middle tier" applications possible to create a separate product for each one. We have created a lot of "bottom tier" options... a framework of extensions. But they can be combined in many hundreds of ways to create different applications. We couldn't possibly create and maintain this many middle tier extensions, so instead we will try to create top tier extensions that may do more than most people need, but will certainly also do everthing that they need.
Good luck with your future endeavors, we appreciate the feedback.