Seems like I'm the Lone Ranger here, but I like this feature and hope to convince you to give it more of a try. Once again, I really understand that change is difficult, especially while under the pressures of deadlines in the workplace. And of course, time and money for training is scarce these days.
I will also agree with Arlene about working in the drawing for a visual aspect. That is one drawback to the block editor environment.
I guess I don't understand the problems with the pull-downs. What pull-downs are you referring too? Are you using the Select Symbol / Objects dialog box? As indicated by the arrows in the attached image, it seems pretty straight forward to me. Select From Drawing is a pretty specific area, so is Insertion Point. Is the confusion from the Attribute Template area?
Are you using the Symbol Builder Attribute Editor? This feature shows you check marks for all inserted attributes, (indicated in attached image), so progress is shown. All required and optional attributes are shown on one page, simpler than having to select from several different dialogs to find your desired attributes.
Since all attributes are listed under Required and Optional headings what assumptions are needed that I'm missing?
I cannot duplicate your error with the wire dialog box blanking out. What steps are you executing to create this?
I frequently train AutoCAD Electrical classes, so I'm trying to see the software through your eyes and understand the difficulties you are having. This will allow me to present the material in a clearer manner.
Randy Brunette