How To Fix OL364 - Errors in container (element '&' is not an object)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: OL - Workflow object types: Run-time system

• Message number: 364

• Message text: Errors in container (element '&' is not an object)

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message OL364 - Errors in container (element '&' is not an object) ?

  The SAP error message OL364, which states "Errors in container (element '&' is not an object)," typically occurs in the context of SAP workflows or when dealing with Business Object (BO) instances. This error indicates that the system is expecting a certain object type in a container, but it has encountered an element that is not recognized as a valid object.
  Causes:
  
  Incorrect Data Type: The element referenced in the error message is not of the expected type. For example, if the workflow is expecting a Business Object but receives a different data type (like a string or number), this error can occur.
  Missing Object: The object that the workflow is trying to access may not exist or may not have been instantiated properly.
  Workflow Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the workflow configuration, such as incorrect binding of elements or incorrect usage of container elements.
  Version Mismatch: If there are changes in the Business Object or workflow definitions, and the workflow is not updated accordingly, it can lead to this error.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Data Types: Verify that the data types of the elements in the workflow container match the expected types. Ensure that the element referenced in the error message is indeed a valid object.
  Validate Object Existence: Ensure that the object you are trying to access exists and is properly instantiated. You can check the relevant transaction or report to confirm the object's status.
  Review Workflow Configuration: Go through the workflow configuration to ensure that all elements are correctly defined and bound. Check for any discrepancies in the workflow steps.
  Debugging: Use the SAP workflow debugging tools to trace the execution of the workflow and identify where the error occurs. This can help pinpoint the exact cause of the issue.
  Update Workflow: If there have been changes to the Business Object or workflow definitions, make sure to update the workflow accordingly. This may involve re-binding elements or adjusting the workflow logic.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to the specific Business Object or workflow you are working with for any known issues or additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues related to OL364 or specific Business Objects you are using. SAP Notes often provide patches or workarounds for known problems.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SWI1 (Work Item Selection) or SWI2_FREQ (Work Item Selection - Frequency) to monitor and analyze workflow instances.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the OL364 error in your SAP environment.