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How To Fix SWF_FLEX_DEF261 - No workflow definition expected for step '&1'


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: SWF_FLEX_DEF -

  • Message number: 261

  • Message text: No workflow definition expected for step '&1'

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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_FLEX_DEF261 - No workflow definition expected for step '&1' ?

    The SAP error message SWF_FLEX_DEF261, which states "No workflow definition expected for step '&1'," typically occurs in the context of SAP Business Workflow. This error indicates that the system is unable to find a workflow definition for a specific step in the workflow process. Here are some potential causes, solutions, and related information for this error:

    Causes:

    1. Missing Workflow Definition: The workflow definition for the specified step may not exist in the system.
    2. Incorrect Step Configuration: The step may be incorrectly configured or not linked to a valid workflow definition.
    3. Transport Issues: If the workflow was transported from one system to another, the transport might not have included all necessary components.
    4. Versioning Issues: There may be multiple versions of the workflow, and the system is referencing an outdated or incorrect version.
    5. Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the workflow definition.

    Solutions:

    1. Check Workflow Definition:

      • Use transaction code SWDD (Workflow Builder) to check if the workflow definition for the specified step exists.
      • Ensure that the workflow is activated and correctly configured.
    2. Review Step Configuration:

      • Verify the configuration of the step in the workflow. Ensure that it points to the correct workflow definition.
    3. Transport Check:

      • If the workflow was transported, check the transport logs to ensure that all necessary objects were included in the transport request.
    4. Version Management:

      • Check if there are multiple versions of the workflow. If so, ensure that the correct version is being used.
    5. Authorization Check:

      • Ensure that the user executing the workflow has the necessary authorizations to access the workflow definition.
    6. Debugging:

      • If the issue persists, consider debugging the workflow to identify where the error occurs. Use transaction SWI1 to analyze workflow instances and check for errors.

    Related Information:

    • Transaction Codes:

      • SWDD: Workflow Builder
      • SWI1: Work Item Selection
      • SWI2_FREQ: Work Item Selection for Recurrent Workflows
      • SWI2_DURA: Work Item Selection for Duration-Based Workflows
    • Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on workflow management and troubleshooting.

    • SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.

    By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the SWF_FLEX_DEF261 error message in SAP.

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