The whole notification or lack of it thing is not game-breaking, nor will it drive me to quit. I like this game, and I do think the SoR folks are responsive and are trying very hard. (Of course, I came here after a year in SWG, so my perceptions may be a bit skewed regarding responsiveness.)
Yes, there is no better bargain for the money spent in terms of entertainment, and if you think watching TV is cheaper you ain't seen my cable bill. And yes, if I have to choose between getting it fixed faster or being told about it I would choose getting it fixed faster.But it IS downright annoying to think you will be able to get in some more coveted gametime after the quick reboot before you have to sleep, only to keep seeing the "shard not available" message for over 3 hours before getting some information. (Ok, I didn't keep at it that long. I gave in to reality and hit the sack after about 1 hour. But the point is valid.)
All I really want is a simple and quick announcement when it becomes apparent that this ain't a simple reboot. Anything after that is a bonus.
And as all estimates are just that, I will forgive SoR when the estimates are wrong. I really see this more as a courtesy to the player-customer. And many if not most of you guys are actually old enough to know how a little simple courtesy can go a long way.