This post is in no way meant to complain about all the amazing content that was added to this game after release. That being said one "complaint" heard about the game is that a lot of the content feels added on and there doesn't seem to be one overarching mechanic or one cohesive grand design. Xeno Arena being a prime example. It's a criticism that I can relate to but it hasn't stopped my from putting in >170 hours.
I thought it could be fun to fantasise about ways to "fix" this. For instance one idea I had that would be relatively easy to implement is some sort of automated trade routes. You could tie together bases, settlements, settlement buildings and level, standing, capital spaceships (level), frigate expeditions, squadrons, maybe even some exclusive routes from community events. Rewards could include freighter upgrade/storage modules, the only sort of rare "loot" left in the game, or "exclusive" corvette parts or maybe even quicksilver or nanites.