My triple is essentially a standard double (52-39 though) with a 30-tooth granny. For relatively flat terrain out here west of Chicago I can just leave it in the 39 all day long and be pretty happy. I will throw it onto the big gear if I am hammering a longish descent.

On a compact, I prefer to run in the 50 most of the time and shift down to the small ring only if needed for a steeper hill.

Note that I do not lose any sleep over cross-chaining -- if you do, my methods will probably not suit you.