A lot of programs allow you to create features using rules. What I have done in the past is define a series of points where I want the lightening features and then have the computer follow the rule that places those extrusions at those points. It takes for ever to set up, but you only really have to do it once.
Depending on the program you use, the names for this might be different. For inventor it is all done under I-Properties.
Here is a dull demo for inventor 2011
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiJGymwstpE
Proper instruction videos are also available on youtube.
Good luck
