Good post Rick,
"3. small cells - plug trays, propagation trays, inserts, or trays of small pots"
Any chance you have photos of these? The first three especially. I 'think' I can visualize a tray of small pots, but who knows? Do you find these at a big box store or some specialty supplier? I haven't noticed any of these offered out in the boonies and haven't thought to look for them when I've visited the bigger cities.
I've started seeds indoors. Usually with good success, but sometimes damping off has been a problem on really young seedlings. I know really good air circulation helps with that. I've been known to set an oscillating fan in the vicinity in the past.