I think the shows producers care very much about what viewer think about the storyline. Viewers=Ratings=Advertising Dollars.
I personally enjoy the slow unwinding of the story. I find it intrigueing. If we get all the answers to all of our questions next week, then the show is over.....and I can't stand the thought of that. As long as they keep it intelligent and keep revealing bits and pieces along the way...I am in for the long haul.
From statements I have read from the producers....they say we will know who the others are and why they are there by the end of this season.
Last season they said we would know why the plane crashed at the end of the season and we did.