Names in list

I have installed the extension on a couple of sites (J1.7 and J1.5) and must say first, its totally impressive! The interface is superb. Had a mailchimp account a long time ago, and recently went back after finding this.
So after playing for a couple of days, I'm puzzled particularly about the missing names issue. On my site, where I don't want user registration, I can't use the namefield option to customize the mailing. That seems like a pretty basic omission, isn't it? Or am I missing something? If that could be added it would be great. (Please?)

I wouldn't want to put this in any kind of offical review, but I can't help wondering if this is actually any different/better/easier than just going to Mailchimp to send to a list? Just an honest question....

Cheers, and thanks for all your work.

John