IMO it's always wise to at least look at a zip file before dumping it into your runtime. Not all zips are set up in proper poser stucture and may not install where you think they should show up. The same goes for installer, install to a dummy and look at the stucture. I do it that way primarily because I use Pboost and need to know what to set up to accept the files. Plus it's a whole lot easier finding them when I have to correct errors. Bottom line, do what's comfortable for you.

I must remember to remember what it was I had to remember.