When do you need Mage's Ballad?

[Risvertasashi]

When we ask for it, that's it. Situation 2 was the healer problem, not you.

The best bards keep an eye on on the party's status and respond without needing to be told what song to use at every moment, however. Yes, the healer can ask, but if resses are going out and they look low on MP? No shroud icon next to their name? Turn on Ballad. Like the guy below says.

Honestly...as a MCH....if it's a real situation where ballad is needed? A healer should never need ask. They should be keeping tabs on their own DPS/TP, MP, others MP, others TP, DPS, turret positions and rotation.
Same goes for BRD minus pet add some DOT/procs.