If C#/Java allowed you to start with basic structures whilst doing rapid prototyping/iterations, and then later solidify them into appropriate objects/classes they'd be far more useful.
So if you do graphics and want to switch from regular/high setting to a lower setting for greater control.
Also handy when watching videos, you can set it to super low so that knocking the desk doesn't make the mouse move slightly and bring up the control panel.
Or if you need to let one of those people that can't use a mouse without moving their hand and arm loads use it.
Works just as well as any gaming mat, and is way better than the shitty desk surface.