If wanted, Bitshares can adopt same metered model  for transactions (maybe only some, transfer for example) used by Steem and EOS. Removing transaction fees would improve usability.
If Bitshares could issue SMTs, it could compete for the same market as Steem SMTs.
In my opinion Bitshares is already falling behind latest in blockchain tech after Steem came out and with EOS development, Bitshares must adopt better tech to stay relevant.
SMT is essentially a custom UIA and if Bitshares does not want to get passed as an option for ICOs it needs more flexibility and more custom UIA options.