I totally understand the whole, back-end staff having money taken away from them if they are removed/reduced, and the in-person team being handed cash, benefits only them...
However, if this money handed over is indeed pooled, then what difference does it make to remove and give cash, compared to leaving the auto's on. Maybe its receiving the gratification directly from the staff who deal with you daily basis is a nice thing to receive, and the expectation/hope that they will go above and beyond for you since they know for fact the cash can't be removed or taken away like the autos.
Its a tough one, its a tricky one, and its a highly debated topic, which causes anger/frustration/resentment towards some who choose to remove, and vice versa with those who remove and do things differently in a way they deem fit.
End take it that removing on last day is the best way to ensure any such list does not include your cabin, if indeed you are to go ahead with this...
And if we knew for a fact it is pooled, then tipping similar amounts in person will likely give you more thankfulness from those who attend you, and give you more personal happiness, yet make no difference at the end of the day.
I don't know is the best thing to do...personal choice at the end of the day I suppose!