While I understand the reasoning behind this policy, it is a little frustrating. After hours of research, I have discovered a service here that I *really* would like to purchase. But without being able to send private messages, I am unable to purchase the service.
So here I am scanning the forums, looking for threads where I can throw in my two cents. Hopefully I will offer something of value in one of the posts, but I daresay that a lot will likely end up being filler.
While this policy undoubtedly discourages spammers, it also encourages people posting for the sake of posting. I'm not sure that necessarily equates to a better quality forum.