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How To Fix SWF_CST040 - Obligatory task '&' does not exist


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: SWF_CST - Message Class for Workflow Customizing

  • Message number: 040

  • Message text: Obligatory task '&' does not exist

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  • 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.

    Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.



    What else can you do?

    First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

    Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

    You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.


Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SWF_CST040 - Obligatory task '&' does not exist ?

    The SAP error message SWF_CST040, which states "Obligatory task '&' does not exist," typically occurs in the context of SAP Workflow. This error indicates that the workflow is trying to reference a task that is either not defined or has been deleted from the system.

    Cause:

    1. Missing Task Definition: The task that the workflow is trying to execute has not been created or has been deleted.
    2. Incorrect Task ID: The task ID referenced in the workflow is incorrect or misspelled.
    3. Transport Issues: If the workflow was transported from one system to another, the task may not have been included in the transport request.
    4. Changes in Workflow: Changes made to the workflow or task definitions that are not properly updated can lead to this error.

    Solution:

    1. Check Task Definition:

      • Go to the transaction code SWO1 (Business Object Builder) or PFTC (Task Maintenance) to check if the task exists.
      • If the task does not exist, you may need to create it or restore it from a backup.
    2. Verify Task ID:

      • Ensure that the task ID referenced in the workflow is correct. You can do this by checking the workflow definition in transaction SWDD (Workflow Builder).
    3. Transport Check:

      • If the workflow was transported, ensure that the task was included in the transport request. You may need to transport the task separately if it was missed.
    4. Recreate the Task:

      • If the task is missing and cannot be restored, you may need to recreate it. Make sure to configure it correctly to match the original specifications.
    5. Workflow Consistency Check:

      • Use transaction SWU3 to perform a consistency check on the workflow. This can help identify any inconsistencies in the workflow definitions.
    6. Check for Dependencies:

      • Ensure that any dependencies or prerequisites for the task are also in place. Sometimes, tasks depend on other tasks or objects that must be present.

    Related Information:

    • Transaction Codes:

      • SWDD: Workflow Builder
      • SWO1: Business Object Builder
      • PFTC: Task Maintenance
      • SWU3: Workflow Consistency Check
    • Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on workflow management and task definitions.

    • SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. You can search for relevant notes in the SAP Support Portal.

    By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the SWF_CST040 error and implement a solution to resolve it.

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