Okay..going back on this one.. ..i've been wanting to inquire abt this to one of the BWF officials and i was fortunate to do so @ this past WJC.. Here's the simple explanation: The main reason they want to limit the number of teams from 16 to 12 teams (per event) and to only have the Elimination Rd. (and no more Playoff Rd.), after the group play, is simply to have a better competitive atmosphere. The person told me, if they allow 3 teams to qualify from each group (like in previous events), then there's a chance for that 3rd place team to "sandbag" or "slack off" because they'll know they'll make the cut into the QF Rd. anyway. Cutting it to only 2 qualified teams per group will hence increase the competitive factor and teams will go all out. As for the time factor, the person mentioned that could be part of the decision. But the main reason is to "force" more competitive matches.
