I cant say much about the details of the asset as I am under a NDA.
I would say as a example for choosing one way or the other as it relates to my asset it would assemble as such:
so each shape/color would be the object I am just duplicating in 3ds max, to assemble this construct.
For the most part its just a static mesh I think.
so for something you would build with parts as if your using lego, but in terms of your finished asset, it does not ever appear different than the combination of its pieces.
Sorry for not having better example.
and thanks.