So we don't really care about XP tracking, but we don't find any value in arbitrary advance either.
So the purpose of what we have added in FF8 = is to highlight roleplay.
Asking questions at the end of the session, which play into drama, adventure, and archetype portrayal not only gives players clear goals to play the game, but it also gives everyone a moment to shine and restate those cool moments in game that they achieved these things. (good session recap too)
So we let that be tied to a XP pool you spend from, that way it keeps that goal-engine going. So far it has worked incredibly well for new players and veterans alike, our plots go farther and deeper now that what is dramatic is highlighted and rewarded.