We do hands on settling (just a fancy name for controlled crying I think). We watch for the tired signs and as soon as DD/DS shows any of them they are wrapped and popped into bed. If they are crying (not whinging) we go in every 5 minutes (this time varies depending on their age) place our hand on their chest for the count of 10 and then leave the room again. When we go in we don't give eye contact or talk to them. DD was extremely stubborn and sometimes it took us up to an hour to settle her in the first few days/nights. This process took us a week and we have never ever looked back. It was the BEST THING we could have done for DD and us. DD loves a routine and to know what is coming next. DD and DS self settle 99.9% of the time now. If they don't we know that there is something wrong/or they are getting sick.
The best tips I got from my the sleep school I attended were:
* Consistency is the key. Discuss with DP exactly what your plan is and no matter what stick it.
* Give yourself three nights/days before you expect a change
* Monitor your baby closely for the first sign of their tired signs and pop them to bed straight away.
If you want to know what the tired signs just let me know.
This technique worked brilliantly for us and even through the first few nights/days were really hard it is fantastic now and we have the most brilliant sleeper.
Best of luck with making your decision. You need to do what is right for you and your family. If you have any other questions please feel free to PM me.