Since I've ever only done rather simple boards: when would you actually need 16 layers? How complex of a component are we talking about when it would be feasible to use that many layers?
Anything with RF sensitivity can benefit from isolating ground layers. You can use layers for managing thermal effects. Vertical isolation of signal groups to reduce cross-talk. Horizontal space restrictions.
And then of course, signal count and density. Many FPGAs have a thousand or more pins.
We find 4 and 8 layer boards are the best for most of our RF designs (depending on frequency, complexity, etc.) - more layers than that and your dielectric layers start to get too thin and then your tracks have to be super narrow to hit a 50 ohm impedance... But of course, that also depends on what type of substrate you're using, etc.
But for complex digital boards, 16 (or more) layers is common.