I play on the exact same laptop, and I get anywhere between 20-30 fps with all setting on high (even the ini configured ones). Which is more than playable for me. If i really need to ramp up the fps then I can just turn shadows off netting me 50-60 fps even in pvp.

Honestly it depends on the server your on. The highly populated servers tend to see the imbalance, but the newer servers released with launch are still pretty lightly populated and seem alot more balanced. Sure its not as easy to buy things in the player economy and there are ideal times of the day to play (if you are pvp oriented), but overall the balance is pretty good.

Many MMO's have had specific forums for their respective realm/server/whatever. Helps create a common meeting place for the Community leaders on those servers, and a place for players to look for guilds, flame that this person or that did this or that. Makes it easier to set up player created Events (PvP tournaments anyone?). Just an idea, and curious who else might agree

Back when I played SWG there were no instances. If your referring to NGE, that was not SWG I'm sorry. Though your overall idea is a good one, it does get frustrating trying to get a certain gear piece that never wants to drop.