In a just world, credit should accrue based on the relative contributions of the participants. In reality, it often depends on the client and the intended market.
A course developed to sell lots and/or memberships to the wealthy will usually require a brand name designer such as Fazio, Nicklaus, or Jones. The client and the prospective lot/ membership buyers aren't interested in the design associate who really does the work. While stylishly entertaining friends and business associates in your luxury box at the ball game, casually announcing the purchase of a $150,000 membership to the newest Harvey Schwartz ultra-exclusive course just doesn't generate much admiration (or envy).
Some on gca.com believe that there is a direct correlation between the amount of time spent at the site and the quality of the outcome. Holding everything else equal, this may be true, but design ability is hardly evenly distributed. Ross appears to have had considerably more success without much time at a site than many practitioners who literally live on the course. BTW, ask the members at Crooked Stick what they think when they see Pete Dye at the club (grab your wallet; be prepared for the dozers to roll-in).
With private jets and satellite offices, I don't believe that there are many topos being mailed-in today without seeing the site. The name architect may not know how to get to a course (does Nicklaus ever drive himself?), or where the holes are from memory, but I would wager that the drawings/plans have been reviewed with some specificity, and reflect the architect's design intent and style.
I've played a number of Jeff Brauer's courses, and know a little bit about his design process. Jeff is thoughtful and detail oriented. His courses have scale, variety, and are highly playable. I suspect that while a vast majority of golfers enjoy his courses tremendously, less than 10% know or care to know the names of the architect, contractor, or superintendent.
The unsung heroes in the industry must take comfort that there is a group of enthusisats, albeit a very small one, which cares passionately for their work. This website is doing a service to the industry in identifying and encouraging them.