Joel. you have understood the dilemma we all face when it comes to understanding the tech tree, AND in finding out what you need - in game.

I played for two weeks before I realized that quest and notable locations did not generate from the same techs... LOL.

BTW, I like the way tech is implemented.  Sometimes a tech becomes available to choose, sometimes not.  One thing I would like:  all tech trees to have is a variable time to 'completion' of the tech.  Every turn, let the computer look at how much you have already invested in researching that tech, how much is going in that turn, and then 'modify' the result (a little) randomly. This way, sometimes you get the tech a little sooner, sometimes, a little later.

Planning is important.  However, in most games with tech, the player can look and see exactly when the next break-thru will happen.  Not RL.  It should be very close to the projection - but not exact.  That way, planning still works, but actual timing (achieving the new tech) may be one turn early, or one turn later.  Just to add variety, and a little twist every turn.