Q1 - large circles - In SM they don't do anything. I'm guessing in the higher difficulty settings they do. (I did not have a chance to test it)
Q2 - raid warnings/announcements - This was not part of the raid fight. You have to guess.
Q3 - Master Mode - I don't think I can talk about that.
Q4 - Progression raider is much more suited to promote a new boss - I will have to disagree with this. We can put on a better show. That's what Bioware wants and this is better for the game overall. Pro guides can be done later. If you know anything about recording or Twitch streaming then you know people don't play at their best when under these conditions. Also, the clicker VS hotkey debate is really old. Given the ability delay in this game, it's actually not that much faster.