You are very right. Processing the data is what drives me. Its just hard to the point of impossible in my trained field(s) [architecture/GIS/planning/etc.] with current tools so I need to invent something to do it for me (which should help others in different fields too). Its on its way...
As for your first comment, I agree that the process is important, but finishing something can be important too, and the two [good process and good product] aren't necessarily mutually exclusive.
I don't like the term 'forever project' because it implies this will never be finished.