How To Fix SFW278 - Background activation error: specified job contains no steps


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: SFW - Messages for Switch Framework

  • Message number: 278

  • Message text: Background activation error: specified job contains no steps

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SFW278 - Background activation error: specified job contains no steps ?
    The SAP error message SFW278 indicates that there is a problem with a background job that has been scheduled for activation, specifically that the job does not contain any steps to execute. This can occur in various scenarios, particularly when working with background jobs in the SAP system.
    
    Cause: Empty Job Definition: The job was created without any steps defined. This can happen if the job was mistakenly saved without adding any tasks. Job Deletion: The job might have been deleted or modified after it was scheduled, leading to a situation where it no longer has any executable steps. Transport Issues: If the job was transported from one system to another, it might not have been properly configured in the target system. System Errors: There could be underlying system issues or inconsistencies that led to the job being created without steps.
    Solution: Check Job Definition: Go to transaction SM37 (Job Monitoring) and look for the job that is

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