1) I write from the viewpoint of professional design methods.

Meaning design methods prefered by people who get payed to design or statistically demonstrated current industry standards?
1) Never trade quality for cost. Then make the most cost efficient product.

2) How does one identify an amateur vesus an employee.
Amateurs are not payed. Employees should be.
2) How does one identify whether a question in this forum comes from an amateur or an employee.

3) Does most amateurs not "dream" of becoming professionals
sorry, should have said "students or amateurs".

Erik