How To Fix SWF_FLEX_RUN018 - Mitigation for start within application failed (workflow not started)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SWF_FLEX_RUN - Workflow: Runtime Errors

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Mitigation for start within application failed (workflow not started)

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_RUN018 - Mitigation for start within application failed (workflow not started) ?

  The SAP error message SWF_FLEX_RUN018 indicates that a workflow could not be started within an application. This error can occur for various reasons, and understanding the cause is essential for finding a solution. Below are some common causes, potential solutions, and related information for this error.
  Causes:
  
  Workflow Definition Issues: The workflow definition may be incomplete or incorrectly configured.
  Authorization Problems: The user attempting to start the workflow may not have the necessary authorizations.
  System Configuration: There may be issues with the system configuration or settings related to the workflow.
  Technical Errors: There could be underlying technical issues, such as problems with the workflow engine or database connectivity.
  Missing Workflow Template: The workflow template that is supposed to be used may not exist or may not be activated.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Workflow Definition:
  
  Verify that the workflow definition is complete and correctly configured. You can do this by checking the workflow template in the SAP Business Workflow (transaction SWDD).
  Ensure that all necessary steps and conditions are defined.
  
  
  
  Review Authorizations:
  
  Check the user’s authorizations to ensure they have the necessary permissions to start the workflow. You can use transaction SU53 to analyze authorization issues.
  
  
  
  System Configuration:
  
  Review the configuration settings for the workflow in transaction SWU3 (Automatic Workflow Customizing) to ensure everything is set up correctly.
  Check if the workflow is activated and properly linked to the relevant business objects.
  
  
  
  Check Technical Logs:
  
  Use transaction SLG1 to check the application logs for any related error messages that might provide more context on why the workflow failed to start.
  Look for any system errors or exceptions that could indicate a deeper issue.
  
  
  
  Workflow Template Activation:
  
  Ensure that the workflow template is activated. You can check this in transaction SWDD by looking for the activation status of the workflow.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  Test the workflow manually to see if it can be started from the workflow management interface. This can help isolate whether the issue is with the application or the workflow itself.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes related to the specific error message or workflow issues. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for known issues.
  Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for workflows to understand the configuration and troubleshooting steps better.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or support channels where other users may have encountered similar issues.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis or technical team for further investigation.