Tim,
To be specific, the changes on Hole 11 relate to the problems created by increased green speeds, not equipment advances. It is a question that I struggle with greatly. Assuming that green speeds are NEVER going back to 6-8 on the stimpmeter, what is worse, losing an entire section of pinnable locations, pin location clearly contemplated by the architect, or altering classic old green features?
If your response is simply forego those pins locations, it begs the question: would the ODG agree?
If your response is simply maintain the green speed at 6-8, you ignore the outcry that will undoubtedly arise from a VERY large percentage of golfers.
The fact that one of the most famous greens in the world is being altered only brings new focus to this problem.