I think dropping the group study has bought them time. So much pressure off the dubs by doing this.
Think about the average western world congregation of say 80 publishers with 8 elders.
Elders - no one has to conduct a group anymore - just 25 mins at the KH in a mini WT style study in a meeting that is no longer overall than it was. Take the field ministry twice a month and train your asst to to take it every other time.
Let's say you don't beleive it and you're one of the "in for family and social" types. What do you need to do to stay in "good standing"?
Be visible; enough will be:- go to 5 meetings plus per month. (not feeling well or "visiting away" takes care of the other three) Answer twice a month. Do a ministry school item every few months. Go in the ministry twice a month and report 5/6 hours (actually do about 2 hours tops).
The WT will do just enough to keep people coming and a 2/3% increase shown (not actual, just shown).
In ten years I predict shorter WT study, reduced Pio Hours and less literature. Sadly unless there is schism the hardline treatment of d/f will be continued.