I would think robots could create more habitable base location for future human settlements and exploration. It seems wiser for several missions devoted to building up some infrastructure (as self sustaining as possible) wouldn’t be a bad idea before landing humans.
Definitely. A manned mission to Mars now is premature. It’s like forcing clean energy. The technology just isn’t there yet and the cost is prohibitive.
More research is needed and I’m confident there will be breakthroughs. I like your approach. It is like laying a foundation.