A mage can use magic without a staff -many budding mages discover their nature without one- but having that particular implement at hand can be vital. Spells cost mana, and a mage's supply isn't infinite. Without a staff, they would be in trouble during a prolonged fight.

I have been using a staff for so long that the bulk has become negligible to me, but the notion of wands being adapted for our use is intriguing. Perhaps the Formari would be receptive to your ideas.