I was thinking about that recently, having automated many lights at home. This was done in an experimental way, with an amateur approach, and ended up failing

I was thinking about that recently, having automated many lights at home. This was done in an experimental way, with an amateur approach, and ended up failing to work when I was away and leaving my wife with 30% of the lights only. It was not a big deal for me since I was away :) But surprisingly not that a big deal for her either, after explaining me how she would fillet me when I am back home. But then she read more than usual (the tv was out of service as well) and it was finally ok. My lights usually works but the added value of the automation is really there. Sure we can live without but it is a nice touch. I would say that YMMV depending on how you balance availability with some added value you could live without.