axis starting point

Hi, I was wondering what list members use to setup the axis
starting points for their parts. To date I've been using an edge
finder to located the edges of the x and y and then just touching
the surface for the z. Is there a more efficient way of doing this?
How about equipment? I use a base plate jig for pretty much all of
my work, is there something I could incorporate into this to help
with easier alignment? Thanks,