Thanks, Jim -
I like the idea of using the storypole to decide where on the timber to make your layout, because that is what consumes much of my time. I'm very particular when it comes to both structural and ascetic properties of my timbers, and often find myself memorizing multiple measurements and running my tape up and down the faces of each pc.
But, alas, I would need a different story for each pc, which would of course consume even more time...
I supose I'll continue to rely on my super human brain power...(tape, that is...

)