Kefuddle
I'm intrigued by your statement that standardisation leads to low-pay. Surely the only way a system is ever going to lead to low-pay is if it becomes easier to pass, thus attracting, and retaining, low quality candidates.
The military flying training system (UK) is standardised beyond belief, but that does not make it any easier to pass.
I'm not saying you're wrong, but I am confused by your logic and hope that you're wrong!