Astrologian buffs confirmed

[Sidra]

1.5% speed, though is much less than 1.5% actual damage. Probably under 1%. It doesn't improve dot damage, and it doesn't improve oGCD damage (Fester, Deathflare, Sidewinder, DRG Jumps etc..). It's job specific with some jobs getting more of a benefit than others, but still dots and ogcd acount for a large portion of damage. Balance is grossly superior.

I am under the impression that people are vastly underestimating the amount of party DPS an AST brings in it's current form to extended duration (8 player raid) battles.

Balance, even a few times over the course of a battle, with various extended duration buffs - is very good. And you can choose the best DPS, and also potentially an ideal time in their rotation or boss phase. Ewer, Spire, Bole (reduces MP use via less healing) all help save resources, which means less DPS loss from Ballad/Paeon - or even the potential to forego the support slot entirely for a stronger DPS. And depending on Spear's usage, it can add additional DPS or save more resources.

The problem is it's basically impossible to put a number on it, but I really feel this to be true. Some of DPS benefits are indirect as opposed to direct, but they are there.