IMO this is the best approach. Given that there currently is no direct way to register an account, it's clear further development of the concept is necessary, be it the UI / UX or ideology that drives it (will accounts always need to be tied to some other authenticated ID like it is now?), and what incentives or business considerations come into play.

I would avoid potential conflicts between your account creation methodology and any that Steemit devs may come up with.