DOO only works with stations which are staffed and barriered. This is fine on London commuter routes where stations have been barriered for years, but to implement it on a route like Wharfedale or Calder Valley would cost more than the savings in guards' wages. Stations like Walsden, Ravensthorpe and even the newly built Low Moor and Kirkstall Forge, would need buildings installed (or at the very least canopies over the gatelines) and fencing to prevent folk from dodging round said gatelines. Considering TPE spent a load of money installing barriers at Dewsbury which can't be used due to a lack of fire exits from P1, a bit more common sense is required.
I'm of the opinion that the whole debacle was driven by a Tory determination to smash the unions. That they appear to have failed in those efforts for now doesn't mean it's all champagne and smiles though. Come the next franchise negotiations, it'll all come round again. If any moves towards DOO are implemented, they need to be properly costed with regard to alternatives, including staffing and barriering ALL stations.