You can still do all of your automation man just way faster and yes alot less grindy, You use Voltz machines and buildcraft machines without buggy converters, use Universal wire, to move items (automation) you use import, export bus on applied energistics mod. The computer interface and hard drive storage makes it faster and less laggy. Industrial craft was easier because you knew it. Try applied energistics paired with voltz. I hope this helps, If you have questions on what to do shoot me a message, I think you will be pleased. So my views on the new mod packs I love it and it slim lines alot of cheesy mods, I am upset about micro blocks not being in there but It should be added back soon.