How would it be possible to create a series of models for process drawings within CREO 8.0, Merge?

For instance, I've tried the merge function and that seems pretty close to the functionality I'm looking for in regard to sharing geometry between parts (Some limitations of course). In practice I'm looking to create a forging model/drawing, which needs to be referenced by a rough-out/inlay level drawing, which will be referenced by a final machining drawing. In Inventor for example you can very easily derive a component into a brand new file and the first feature you see in the browser of the new file is that referenced part. You can control whether to break the link (as if you wanted to use that geometry as just a template) or maintain the relationship as the design intent would be to have any changes propagate up the chain to all parts making the reference. At any rate, the merge is the first way I see possible to conduct this design intent and wanted to ask the forum in case there is a much better way in CREO. My mind next goes to family tables in regard to feature suppression. which could work, but to keep each phase separate I need to have separate files due to the need of separate released Part numbers for each step.  I taught myself CREO about a year ago and figure something new about it seemingly on a weekly basis. Thanks for any suggestions!

Tim Comer