steem has massive head start compared to other networks. steemconnect allows other sites to use the tech which means it is gonna be used in new projects.
right now there is a flood of new coins/tokens and it is a little hard to see what holds any value - people are chasing new sparky stuff.

i think steemit need to work on interface a little bit and how to present valuable things to right viewers.

dont give up yet. it hasnt even started ;)