Linking Multiple Objects Help

Ok I've no clue how to even search for this one so sorry if it's a commonly asked question.

This isn't a "how do I link" question but what I'm confused over is if I say have multiple objects and I want them to retain their object like properties yet link them then how do I do it?

For example. Say I have a bunch of boards with cones ontop of the boards. The board and cones form an object. Now say I want to make several copies of this object and link them all together. Then I wish to use scripting to rotate some of the boards.

My experience so far is that if I link all the objects together the boards become unlinked from the cones so when I rotate the boards they become seperated from the cones which should stay connected to them.

Is there any way to achieve this object in an object behavior I'd like?

I'm not sure on actually linking them, but to store multiple objects in your inventory as one (like a whole house and furniture), make sure "only select own objects" is ticked in tools then go into build and pull a square from the top left side across the objects to the bottom right.

Then right click, select take or take copy and it will be in your invent as 1 objects.

As a permanent link, I think there's a script available. somebody with more knowledge will be able to answer that