I agree with most of your ideas, but especially on the side quest comments. I think the side quest should show more about the culture and individual aspects of the races and factions of the galaxy. I really would have liked if you got the start of a quest on one planet and you got to go to anouther planet that wasn't required for the main mission. The Yavin station was the closest think to this, but it really is hardley realized.
I think everyone hoped that the size of the game wouldn't just be sort of bare neccesities as far as the main quest went, with just missions like, since you are in the area, why don't you rescue this guy, or get this item