TSV import: prototype assigned but displayed attributes and $DisplayExpression not working

Q & A - getting started with Tinderbox
1

I’m building a small CRM, my most ambitious Tinderbox expedition yet. And I’m stuck.

I’m importing LinkedIn connections data as a TSV by dragging it onto the Tinderbox window (11.6.0 b779). After import, I assign the ConnectionProspect prototype to the imported notes. The notes show the correct prototype name in the Properties Inspector, but they don’t display the prototype’s defined displayed attributes.

Also, $DisplayExpression on the prototype ($FirstName + " " + $LastName) has no effect. The notes show only the first name, which appears to have been used as $Name on import. After the import, the $DisplayExpression field on the prototype shows as blank — as though it was cleared.

When I manually enter $FirstName + " " + $LastName into the Display Expression box in the Text Inspector ▸ Title tab on an individual note, it still shows only the first name.

Two questions:

  1. Why would assigning a prototype not cause the prototype’s displayed attributes to appear on the notes?

  2. Why would $DisplayExpression on the prototype appear blank after import, and why would manually setting it on a note have no effect?

I’d appreciate any help.