I absolutely agree with the idea that DCS needs to step up their involvement with multiplayer matches. As we can see, the it seems the majority of servers are "practice" or "free flight/aerobatics". I would propose that DCS build a random multiplayer mission generator. Everyone joins a server, picks a side, and the sim builds a basic scenario over a given region (capture the airfields, supply/troop drop, escort, etc). The current method of having a private designer painstakingly create an interactive multiplayer mission, just isn't smooth, and creates an often dull multiplayer experience.
I hate to mention the popularity of Call of Duty or Battlefield, but you have to admit to their success in multiplayer because the creator has designed scenarios for their product to shine in that role.
Thanks for taking the time to read that...been on my chest for a while.