Take it or leave it. I am not a deer expert or biologist, but I have found a few techniques after being in the woods a ton and personal experiences.
During the rut when walking in to my stands, that are a little more remote and "louder" to get into, I take my grunt call and about every 5 or so steps give out a light grunt. I have had deer standing 20 yards as I walked past them and not "spook".
Its in their nature to freeze if they cannot identify what is in their area. For the deer in my area, they use sound verification (stomping, the tempo of the walk etc.) along with visual and scent. They are still a naturally curious animal and will undoubtedly remain still until they can identify if there is actually a threat.
I still cant wait for the day I do the grunt technique and come face to face with a buck who is ready to fight. I know one day it will come and I won't be ready!