Yawwwwn. It's a bit dull this isn't it?
Look, the term cheating is both derogatory and pretty insulting to the people who use those mentioned apps, which ever way you cut it. It may be just semantics, but the way that you have phrased your point is very elitest.
You're making the assumption that anybody who uses WYSIWYG apps has little or no understanding of the underlying code. You're also assuming that the role of design and development are not mutually independent. I think you are wrong on both counts.
Yes, lightweight, well constructed code is preferable. I don't believe anybody would suggest otherwise. However, there is such thing as "fit for purpose".
WYSIWYG apps offer a very efficient way to demonstrate a design idea to a client, especially one who is incapable of making the conceptual leap that would be required in order to understand simple functionality when presented with screen shots. In a fast paced design studio, where designs must be signed off by the client after each critical stage of development, GoLive and Dreamweaver are invaluable tools. Likewise, for designers who are migrating from print to web design, these tools are great to see immediate results and encourage further learning.
I don't know about your clients, but I know that the majority of mine have no understanding of HTML, and even less interest in it. What they often want is simple brochure style websites.... yesterday. WYSIWYG apps are a perfect way to deliver this.
Your argument is purely a geeky one..... is clean code better than WYSIWYG generated code. Yes, of course it is! This, however, does not mean that all other approaches are cheating. Design is about creation, and all of the tools and techniques are as valid as one another in order to achieve the end result.
