Randy,
Interesting question. I have wondered about that myself, for my ASQ accreditations. In the ASQ, they mention that writing and publishing papers is one means of accumulating the required CEU to maintain certification. In general, what the ASQ wants from a candidate is for them to maintain current knowledge of quality fields and increase awareness in these fields (quality in general). If I could, I would use these posts as a means of keeping current, learning new things, and helping out where ever I could. What merit is it worth? On a personal level, plenty. On the perspective of the ASQ (or RAB or anyone else), the answer remains a mystery to me.
Regards,
Kevin