How To Fix SWF_FLEX_DEF031 - Negative filter on column &1 is not supported

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SWF_FLEX_DEF -

• Message number: 031

• Message text: Negative filter on column &1 is not supported

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SWF_FLEX_DEF031 - Negative filter on column &1 is not supported ?

  The SAP error message SWF_FLEX_DEF031 indicates that there is a negative filter applied to a column in a flexible workflow definition, which is not supported by the system. This typically occurs when you are trying to set up or modify a workflow and you attempt to use a filter condition that includes a negative operator (e.g., NOT EQUAL TO) on a column that does not support it.
  Cause:
  
  Negative Filter Usage: The error arises when a negative filter is applied to a column in a flexible workflow definition. Some columns may not support negative filters due to the way the underlying data is structured or the logic of the workflow.
  Data Type Limitations: Certain data types or fields may not allow for negative filtering, leading to this error when such filters are attempted.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Filter Conditions: Check the filter conditions applied to the workflow. Remove any negative filters (e.g., NOT EQUAL TO) from the columns that are causing the issue.
  Use Positive Filters: Instead of using negative filters, try to rephrase your conditions using positive filters. For example, if you have a condition like Column A NOT EQUAL TO 'Value', consider using a condition that explicitly includes the values you want, such as Column A EQUAL TO 'Value1' OR Column A EQUAL TO 'Value2'.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation for flexible workflows to understand which columns support negative filters and which do not. This can help you design your workflow correctly.
  Testing: After making changes to the filter conditions, test the workflow to ensure that it behaves as expected without triggering the error.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes or Knowledge Base Articles (KBAs) that may provide additional insights or updates regarding this error.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  Workflow Configuration: Familiarize yourself with the configuration settings for flexible workflows in your SAP system, as this can help prevent similar issues in the future.
  
  By addressing the negative filter and ensuring that your workflow conditions are compliant with the system's requirements, you should be able to resolve the SWF_FLEX_DEF031 error.