Print and Videos
http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/pac_ctnt_ihdr/text/0,,HPRO_20976_28891,00.html?ref=ribbon
for example:
Window framing without jackstuds
http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/bp_framing/article/0,2617,HPRO_20147_3457603,00.html
Ladder Framing Allows Better Insulation
http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/bp_framing/article/0,2617,HPRO_20147_3457613,00.html
split trimmers could a tendency to fail over time, since the transference of load goes through the face grain of the sill. End grain is much stronger. Cripples aren't always needed however, to hold up a rough sill. Even if you do use them, you are talking about a very small amount of material. As far as the ladder framing goes, yes it is a good way to use scrap material, although most of the scrap is usually used up as fireblocking, and frieze blocking. I would also hate to be the one to have to try and stuff the insulation back into the ladder frame! Alternitavely, you could use a single 2x6 (for 2x4 walls or 2x8 for 2x6 walls), nailed between the plates on the flat. If the wall lands on an exterior stud, a couple of strips of plywood can be used as drywall backing, and insulation can still be stuffed.
Videos are really iffy on this computer, with dial-up and especially rain, but that sort of sounds like the Building Science guy, Joseph Lstiburek, is it?
http://www.buildingscience.com/resources/walls/default.htm