How Prompt Layering Works

Axon resolves prompts in layers so each project can inherit system or framework defaults while still allowing project-specific overrides. The first non-empty prompt wins.

Priority Order

For both Summary and Findings prompts, Axon resolves the effective prompt in this order:

Project override (project-level summary_prompt / insights_prompt)
Framework default (if a strategic framework is selected on the project)
System default (prompt_defaults table)
Legacy fallback (project custom_prompt, only for older records)

The system skips empty or whitespace-only prompts and uses the first non-empty value.

Project Overrides

Stored on the project record. Use these when one project needs a specific format, emphasis, or tone.

Framework Defaults

Stored in prompt_defaults (prompt_type = synthesis) and selected via Strategic Framework in Project Settings.

System Defaults

Baseline prompts used when no project override is set and no framework is selected.

Legacy Fallback

custom_prompt is only used if all newer fields are empty. It exists to support older projects.

Where to Edit Each Layer

Project overrides and framework selection live in Project Settings for the active project.
Framework and system defaults are managed in the prompt_defaults table.
User-level prompt defaults are no longer part of the active prompt chain.

Reset Behavior

Resetting project prompts clears summary_prompt and insights_prompt on the project.
If a strategic framework is selected, framework defaults apply after reset.
If no framework is selected, system defaults apply.

Example Resolution

If a project has a Findings override, that value is used. If it is empty and the project uses a strategic framework, the framework's findings prompt runs. If neither is present, the system default runs.