Futher to my initial suggestion. How about just a way of highlighting all systems on the galactic map that contain population of a selected enemy (this information should already be in the client).

I wouldn't need to know the trade network then but I should still be able to co-ordinate an assault on enemy space.

Err, you can do this already.

It's called Race's Colonies.

Yep.

Ummm, okay. Walk me through it, starting from opening the game client what do I do?

Have it showing the galactic map.
Select the race in the top right list that you want to look at.
Then select the Galatic Filt item 'Races Colonies' and it will show their systems highlighted.

Ahha. Handy. Never actually noticed that. Now maybe I can consider some sort of grand enterprise to map the cosmos...

Hmmmm.