i think one great improvement would be for you to be able to insert items where you want in the text files..
example. You have created 3 more levels of armor.
instead of putting them at the end it prompts you if you would like to insert it after the current armor in the text file ( could be an option you turn off or on )
THis wouldhelp with keeping the text files clean.
And I would love to see the ability for the modder to show a family ( seperate window ) so you could see all the components or facilites in that family at once.
Then allow you to edit it on the family tree.
And another cool idea i have is the create family
where you create the first item and then it asks you what you wish to see for the cost factors for each level afterwards ( ie cost in minerals , size , damage resistance , and then values and weapon stuff )
then the family window pops up with the results and then you can commit that family or edit it and save the changes or cancel it.
P.S.
I use the modder all the time. It is fantastic.
But to use it you do need the ability to keep track of families pictures used etc...
Perhaps another release with some reports on what is currently being used in the mod