Pier Janssen (developer of the popular Outliner script) recently released a new MAXScript called Edge Smooth (http://www.scriptspot.com/3ds-max/scripts/edgesmooth) that lets you control face smoothing by the edges. Since I don't use Maya, I can't speak from experience... but this seems to be a technique brought in from the Maya world.
Although I like the Max way of using Smoothing Groups... this "new" method is pretty convenient in many circumstances. I've found it convenient enough to add it as a set of keyboard shortcuts to Smooth and Harden the edges.
If you don't have it, you should. And for you Maya users... it may make Max feel a little more comfortable for you :)