I use my quicklaunch extinsively. I rarely use desktop shortcuts since windows are open most of the time, so I need my commonly used applications right at hand. The space is there, I know the layout, so why not use it? That's why it's there.
That's just my take on the subject when people comment about a cluttered desktop or quicklaunch. What it comes down to is this: You do what works for you, and I'll do what works for me.
I'm not trying to single you out, Silv. That's a general opinion there.