What about a beta test server?
When new updates are ready, wipe a beta server and let everyone test out new ideas, features, and concepts prior to releasing to the rest of the servers and provide feedback in the forums.
If possible, allow players to copy their stats from another server for testing.
Ex: /copyPlayerStatsFrom London
Not all features need to be beta tested, and not everything beta tested needs to go live. Just a place to try out new things and see how the community reacts.
What are your thoughts?