Spell usage and implementation has improved incredibly in recent times, there are a couple of areas they may possibly be improved further.
1. Auto self cast. If it is not possible to cast a spell on the target then attempt to cast on self [not for damage type spells but heal, buff etc]. For example presently this works for Water Barrier and Defensive Wind, but not for Rock Armour.
2. Defensive buffs directly relate to Way skill level. At present the strength of "Armour" buffs seems to relate to armour worn+armour condition+armour type skill level. Should a defensive effect cast by a character, such as Water Barrier, with 150 BW be as effective as 150 HA with new armour? I would like to think so. The essence of a skill based system is about viable freedom of choice, with this approach a magic oriented character becomes possible without investing time, and possibly uncharacteristic energy, into "physical" skills.
So what do you think? Maybe this is already planned as part of the new combat system, I could be "mad as a fish" and this would tear apart the fabric of our reality?