To be truthful, I added this module because it sounded like a clever idea. Personally I assumed everyone more forum savy than myself (which I assume to be most) would know what to do with it. The fact that it has not been this way makes me a bit worried.
Personally, I think this feature should be used judiciously. Applause is one thing, but smiting should be rare. I assume a moderator would review this information when an incident occurs. Feel free to give kudos when you feel moved to do so. I applauded Mark Theurer for his post for example. Goodness should be spread like manure (IMHO).