Indeed, there are 2 visions of Steemit: that of the developers and that of the users. Developers work on the structure: blockchain and steem. Users would like a more user-friendly and social-networked interface. Both are possible provided there is consensus.
Why, as you mention, would not there be two levels? A beginner level for social media users (posts, comments and rewards) and a more advanced level for crypto users (transactions, exchanges, etc.).
A good team of "designer" and "marketer" could certainly propel Steemit to a high level.