Hi Andy
I'm sorry you feel that the US is making things harder for you. I can understand your irritation but I do think the new process will be an improvement in many ways.
The ESTA form you fill in online is valid for two years, so you will no longer have to fill in the old I-94W form each time you visit. This will also get rid of the mountains of paperwork associated with the old system.
The ESTA system will also help make improve security, as it will give the US authorities several days to run checks on passengers rather than having to make snap decisions at passport control.
A similar system has been used by Australia for several years and been a success.
I do hope you won't be deterred from visiting this amazing country.
Kind regards,
Olly, your editor