First, how long does it take to find something you actually want to watch? I've seen many instances of flipping through a set of ~100 channels in search of something interesting. However, with frequent ads and no indication of what is on any given channel, it's easy to miss something worthwhile.
Second, channel numbers hold no significance. Channel #Z means station Y only through company X in region V. Figuring out the layout when I'm away from home is not worth my time.
Third, the provided "cable boxes" you can fork out extra money for each month are a poor excuse to improve the cable tv experience. Yes, they show what's on each channel, but paging only ten out of hundreds (including those you don't receive). What about a decent search feature? Some have a search, but input with a standard remote is awful. Include something with a QWERTY. Finally,they're slow. Waiting multiple seconds for every action should not be a common occurrence in this decade.
When the average Joe starts realizing these issues they've put up with for years, I have no doubt they'll follow the techies.