Before we knew any better:
We first stayed at ASMO, 6 adults splitting 2 rooms. We were in Dalmation, with no view to speak of, but we were steps away from the bus stop, food courts, and it was quiet amidst Pop Warner days...
ASMU - one night only - we were way back in Rock Inn, parking lot view. FAR AWAY from everything. I would not have been happy if we had been staying for a longer time.
CSR - paid for standard view, got Casitas 5, lakeview. Very pleased.
Dolphin - requested best view available (gov't rate $129) and got 19th floor with views of Epcot, Boardwalk, and MGM. We spent hours staring out the windows.
Upcoming trips - VWL - never been there, only requested non-smoking. I'm afraid of getting the infamous non-balcony studio - but now I know not to "settle."
BCV - requested non-smoking - 5th floor, Epcot view first choice, Boardwalk/Lake view 2nd choice. We will see!