So it seems like there's 2 requests in this thread:

1) Make the game client side instead of server side.

Dealing with this one, I believe SE made the game this way because they were under the impression it would minimize game hacks which were initiated client side in FFXI. It won't help, and only decreases the playability and enjoyment of the game. +1 in favor of this.

2) Create UI hotkeys.

-1 in favor of this. I enjoy being able to type sentences with the letters I and L etc. Hotkey combos I would support because those are easy to map into macro keyboards. A UI overhaul is overdue as well, but personally I enjoy playing with a gamepad and is one of the only reasons I got hooked on FFXI. If I wanted to point and click things to death, I would play Missile Command.