How To Fix AO474 - No workflow approver - the applicant = the approver

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AO - Appropriation requests - Master data / Customizing

• Message number: 474

• Message text: No workflow approver - the applicant = the approver

What causes this issue?

'For approval' status was set for appropriation request &V1&. Since the
approval process uses workflow, you are required to enter the approvers
in partner management.
The applicant is not allowed as a workflow approver.
The applicant was entered as an approver, with partner function &V2& as
partner &V3&. There is no other approver entered.

System Response

The appropriation request cannot be set to 'for approval' status.

How to fix this error?

Enter one or more other approvers.
If there is only one approver, it is not allowed to be the applicant.
Then you can set the status of the appropriation request to 'for
approval'.

Procedure for System Administrators

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AO474 - No workflow approver - the applicant = the approver ?

  The SAP error message AO474 ("No workflow approver - the applicant = the approver") typically occurs in the context of SAP Workflow, particularly in scenarios involving approval processes. This error indicates that the system cannot find a valid approver for a workflow because the applicant (the person who submitted the request) is also set as the approver. This situation creates a conflict, as the system requires a different individual to approve the request.
  Cause:
  
  Self-Approval Configuration: The workflow is configured in such a way that the applicant is also designated as the approver.
  Missing Approver Assignment: There may be no other approvers assigned in the workflow configuration.
  User Roles and Authorizations: The user may not have the necessary roles or authorizations to act as an approver in the workflow.
  Workflow Settings: The workflow settings may not be correctly defined to allow for a different approver.
  
  Solution:
  
  Change the Approver: Modify the workflow configuration to assign a different approver who is not the same as the applicant. This can usually be done in the workflow definition or by adjusting the user assignments.
  Review Workflow Configuration: Check the workflow settings in the SAP system to ensure that the approver is correctly defined and that there are no conflicts.
  User Role Assignment: Ensure that the user roles and authorizations are correctly set up so that the intended approver has the necessary permissions to approve the request.
  Consult Workflow Administrator: If you are not able to resolve the issue, consult with your SAP Workflow administrator or technical team to review the workflow design and make necessary adjustments.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Workflow Customization: Depending on your organization's SAP setup, workflows can be customized. Understanding how to navigate and modify workflows in SAP Business Workflow (transaction code SWDD) may be necessary.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP Notes can provide additional insights or solutions.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation on workflow management for detailed guidance on setting up and troubleshooting workflows.
  
  By addressing the configuration and ensuring that the approver is distinct from the applicant, you should be able to resolve the AO474 error.