Another way of looking at the situation is that it is exactly the same as a crosswind approach/landing situation, in that there are 2 ways to fly the approach: Wing down/top rudder (slip) or crab.
Both have the same net effect, in that they allow the airplane to track the localizer or extended runway centerline. Both require some kind of transition from the airborne to the runway environment. Both allow some combination of the basic 2 techniques. Both become "intuitive" to the experienced pilot, who may not overtly realize which [combination of] technique he employs, and in what sequence.
The one difference is that in the takeoff case, a slip is not normally seen as a "proper" technique once airborne, so a transition to balanced flight is "always" required. The choice is then to maintain runway heading or to "crab" into the wind to maintain the extended runway centerline track. Both are "proper" techniques, and one or the other may be required in specific departure procedures (though it appears that maintaining track is becoming the more frequent requirement).
IMO, the bottom line is that a controlled transition from runway to airborne environment must be made, and specific techniques for doing so depend on the airplane and installed equipment.