If i compile hl models i use my desktop as a root derectory for textures, mdl files and smd's. On that way i can quikly set up a root directory. And when im making map textures i go on the fly saving usualy up to 15 files on my destop, when i finishd them i mix them around in one texture.
Ah, i remember my last autumbreak, one week of mapping for nothing. the engine couldnt handle the map, and finaly i got it to compile, then it crashed in game at the same place all the time.... bugger.
LOL, no program can handle any polycount. hl is havgin a hard time wiht 200, over 10.000 is like a ritual suicide of your machine. If you dont know anything about models and polycounts then dont say you can have higher then 10.000, you made yourself look like a fool