More Database Suggestions: "Parties"

As it stands now, the name fields are to be entered Last, Middle, then First. A) It seems counterintuitive to enter Middle before First name, and B) it may not be necessary to have three fields, especially if the authority name is First Last and Dates, or only First Last. How closely should we be following LC authorities for contributors in these records? Or should we create our own authorities for authors/artists/editors based upon this current system?