Oi... here we go again... (dammit we need to get back to debugging the serverkit so we can move on to working on PvP DV shifts again...)
Till then, I suggested to Dizzy a version of Skull's "Slot" called "The Ring" - a small area on the map with no disengagement rule limited to smaller hulls and no significant resources so players can have unlimited PvP opportunities.
I have logged off more than one server for good because of the disengagment rule. Basically if you're not in a DN you get run out of every significant area where good PvP can be had and are relegated to running PP farming missions behind the lines or in insignificant areas of the map by yourself. Players should not be punished for not being in a DN or not being a PvP ace and being excluded from further PvP action. (That's boring)
While t00l has a good point about map size, the issue remains. For me, a "Slot" or "Ring" solves this problem - that way I can fly my CL or CA on a casual basis and still have plenty of opportunity for fun PvP battles. I think it is the best compromise for now.
I beleive there needs to be PvP and hex flipping. I do quite a bit of both, though some servers I PvP more and others I flip more. To have a "ring" where you can PvP till your heart is content is all fine and dandy, but if it means virtually nothing, then just go play on GSA.
I suggest, if possible, to have the map divided in some fashion, where the hex flipping must be done the standard way, and some "special" areas where it is not right to go in with hex flippers, but also counts for a lot. For instance, some hexes, say rocks and black holes, that are to be worth a lot but must have people try to control it with mainly PvP. I realize that sometimes there may not be peops to fly against, so go hex flip somewhere else that counts for that. If there are enemies on who wish to PvP for control, Ask, and meet them in and around those areas. You will still get some missions where you will have AI only and end up doing some hex flipping due to the nature of the game, but try to keep those zones for PvP as much as possilble.
That is my proposal.