The result is that these people are pounding each other in an attempt to communicate with a PacketCluster node. By adjusting some key parameters in your TNC, you set yourself apart from the crowd. You transmit when they don't. The Node hears you after only 1 or 2 tries. When everyone adjusts their parameters, they are in effect taking turns at communicating with the Node.
Information flows more smoothly.
And things actually run at a faster clip. Under these conditions, someone is transmitting almost all of the time. And, you don't hear many of the other users, compounding the problem. If things don't work perfectly, try minor PARM changes. You may be conflicting with another user.