Idea for a relatively simple Rune system fix (Improved experience for new players)
So, it seems to be that T1 and T2 Runes are universally considered a complete IP trap for new players, and runes in general are a pretty heavy IP sink for players that already have barely enough to afford 6300 champions. So why not change this to improve the general player experience?
My suggestions are as follows: 1.) Delete Tier 1 Runes entirely. For most new players, runes are completely out of the picture for summoner levels 1-10, and possibly even beyond that. At this point you're still learning the very basic mechanics on the game, and runes are just another needless thing to worry about.
2.) Make Tier 2 Runes FREE, starting at level 11. This would allow players to save IP on a potential trap, while also allowing them to start to learn the basics of runes and how to specialize in them. Perhaps have sets of runes unlock with each summoner level, as opposed to the entire catalog being available at once, and giving too much power to new players. Establish some sort of limitation as to just how free they are, make it a gradual process as the summoner levels up.
This is largely a hefty band-aid fix, as Tier 3 runes still need some looking at, but I really think it'd help a lot of new players make the transition into the Runes mechanic a bit better.