<...Based on those previous conversations with the engineers, it seems their goal was to spend whatever it took to develop new technology. Actually building and flying the station was secondary.
I would've preferred that the primary goal was to actually build a functioning and practical space station, with the secondary goal of developing new technology whenever necessary. My side lost that argument and the result is the ISS we have today: years late, billions over budget, reduced in scope almost to the point of uselessness, and facing a skeptical public and Congress to throw more money down that rat hole.
In his comment on the "new technology" goal, Larry has nailed it right between the eyes. This is the whole story of the ISS in a nutshell.
Space/Science » in reply to Gold plating
Re: Gold plating