The problem is that patent databases are extremely complex to use, and patent data hard to interpret. It has to be remembered that anybody can draft a patent, and file it at the patent office, and it will be published. That doesn't mean it is any good, or will ever be granted. They will then balance these results against a second search on granted patents which, while taking longer to be published, are more reliable since they have been reviewed by the patent office. Na ve searchers don't appreciate subtleties like this.
Large companies know how to use it, and they use it well.
The problem arises with smaller companies, who don't have the time, the money, the inclination, or the understanding, to use patent information intelligently. My concern, therefore, is that too many smaller companies dabble with patent information, and while some may get a goodish answer, many don't. Either way, they tend not to be exploiting it properly. But there is a sizeable group for whom it is relevant. These can be categorised into three types.