How To Fix /SRMSMC/FND_WFL005 - Inconsistent work item; unknown workflow type &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SRMSMC/FND_WFL -

• Message number: 005

• Message text: Inconsistent work item; unknown workflow type &1

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 /SRMSMC/FND_WFL005 - Inconsistent work item; unknown workflow type &1 ?

  The SAP error message /SRMSMC/FND_WFL005 Inconsistent work item; unknown workflow type &1 typically indicates that there is an issue with a workflow item in the SAP system. This error occurs when the system encounters a work item that references a workflow type that is not recognized or does not exist in the system.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Workflow Definition: The workflow type referenced in the work item may not be defined in the system. This can happen if the workflow was deleted or not properly activated.
  Transport Issues: If the workflow definitions were transported from one system to another (e.g., from development to production), there may have been issues during the transport process, leading to missing or inconsistent workflow definitions.
  Custom Development: If there are custom workflows, they may not have been properly implemented or activated.
  Database Issues: There could be inconsistencies in the database that prevent the system from recognizing the workflow type.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Workflow Definitions: Verify that the workflow type referenced in the error message exists in the system. You can do this by navigating to the workflow management area in SAP (transaction code SWDD or SWI1) and checking the workflow definitions.
  Re-activate Workflows: If the workflow definition exists but is inactive, try reactivating it.
  Transport Check: If the issue arose after a transport, check the transport logs for any errors related to workflow definitions. Ensure that all necessary objects were transported correctly.
  Custom Workflow Review: If the workflow is custom, review the implementation to ensure that it is correctly defined and activated.
  Database Consistency Check: Run consistency checks on the database to identify and resolve any inconsistencies that may be affecting workflow recognition.
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  SWDD: Workflow Builder
  SWI1: Work Item Selection
  SWI2_FREQ: Work Item Selection for Recurrent Tasks
  
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for workflows to understand how workflows are defined and managed.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be necessary to consult with your SAP Basis or Workflow team for further investigation and resolution.