Growing up in the 90s, I used to watch a lot of big technology keynotes (Macworld, et al.).  Sun cofounder Scott McNealy gave one about the time Java was introduced that still deeply resonates with me.  He envisioned a future where programming was easily accessible:  It didn't take an overpriced, poorly communicative engineer to build something for you.  You were empowered to create your own personalized tools, all by yourself.

At the time, AppleScript or HyperCard enabled this in a limited way.  Now we have JavaScript and ActionScript - both are quite powerful and commonly available; however, they can be a bit intimidating and unfamiliar for many people.  These same people can probably scratch their own itches with Excel though. . .