I agree 100%. Sometime ago (Pro2001 or so) we implemented the suggested layer scheme provided by PTC with their start parts. Before this we had some models with layers 1-32, but most with no layers defined, along with no default planes or csys. Definitely a pain to use parts without consistent defined layers for assembly, NC, etc...
It is such a standard now that when I bring up older parts (rare) that don't have the (standard) layering scheme, I apply Modelcheck to delete the old layers and put all of the features on the 'correct' layers. The only problem left is how to get layer rules enforced, as Modelcheck will not create these rules, but manually puts features on the layers.
The only problem with layering features and hiding/showing layers, is in some commands (in WF5-CEP) I can't change the layer status when I am in the middle of a command. Maybe this will change in CREO2 or maybe 3. BTW, who at PTC thought 'Unhide' was a better choice than 'show' for layer visibility?
I think some of the real power of layers is that you can have 'meta' layers that will hide other layers, esp. in Assembly mode. Such as: 01_ASM_ALL_DTM_PLN in the default PTC assembly template will hide all datum planes.
Christopher F. Gosnell
FPD Company
124 Hidden Valley Road
McMurray, PA 15317