I have always had the better results using the monach points to build a strong economy, allowing the purchase of level 3 advisors. The only thing you gain is a lowered technology cost, while your sub optimal unit types remain. I have tried both strategies and have found so far that the process is not worth it for Ottomans and Russia. This cuts down the rebelliousness of your provinces significantly Make sure that you have a religious unity and cultural untiy close to 100% before starting to westernize.This makes it extra hard to westernize if you expand agressively The amount of power you can spend per month (and thus the totalduration of the transition) depends on the total base tax value of your nation. Watch out how fast you grow your empire.That way you can spend your monarch points in a meaningful way instead of advancing technology I tend to start 'lagging' in technology when I have two idea groups activated.You need some technology advances to get access to buildings that are essential for your economy and to idea groups
Here's a couple of pointers from my personal experience.
