Where do you rank m4/3 in the hierarchy or cameras?

As I delve into m4/3 I figured it would be interesting to see how other users came into the format...

To elaborate slightly, I am getting into it as a method to access a camera with better quality and control than a small sensor compact, whilst also being easier to carry and more portable than a traditional SLR which can be a pain to carry for long periods or when you aren't going out specifically for photography, but might still want to take a few pictures.

Similarly I can see m4/3'rds place as a great point to start when upgrading from a compact camera, as an alternative feature set from traditional SLR's (such as the EVF rather than OVF) and presumably many other reasons beside...

So why did you buy into the format rather than SLR's, compact cameras or any other option? An alternative to your normal gear or a main system?
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