[warp nine]

Wishlist (let me know what u think)

More complex, active populations:
Give each planet population abilities in different areas that can improve as they learn from having facilities on the planet. Populations would gain Science ability from Research Centers, Engineering ability from Space Yards, Worker abilities (Miner, Farmer, Refiner) from the production facilities, etc. Their best abilities would determine their Occupation. A player could, for example, select the best Scientists to populate a new Research Compound.

Same for Crews: Give the Crew Quarters or Bridge component an ability to hold a dozen or so population members, then the player could handpick crews from different Occupations to pilot the ship. The crew members would each chip in their unique abilities as bonuses to combat, ship repair, whatever.