How To Fix SWF_UTL_000005 - Character '&1' is in string '&2' more than once

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SWF_UTL_000 - Messages for I/O - Service Class CL_SWF_IO_SERVICES

• Message number: 005

• Message text: Character '&1' is in string '&2' more than once

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 SWF_UTL_000005 - Character '&1' is in string '&2' more than once ?

  The SAP error message SWF_UTL_000005 indicates that a specific character (denoted as &1) appears more than once in a given string (denoted as &2). This error typically arises in the context of workflow or string manipulation within SAP systems, where unique identifiers or delimiters are expected.
  Cause:
  
  
  Duplicate Characters: The error is triggered when a character that is expected to be unique (like a delimiter or a special character) appears multiple times in a string. This can happen in various scenarios, such as:
  
  When defining workflow tasks or steps that require unique identifiers.
  When processing strings that are expected to have a specific format.
  
  
  
  Incorrect Input Data: The input data being processed may not conform to the expected format, leading to duplicates.
  
  
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the configuration of workflows or processes that lead to the generation of strings with duplicate characters.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Input Data: Review the input data or strings being processed to ensure that the character in question is unique. If it is meant to be a delimiter, ensure it only appears once.
  
  
  Modify Workflow Configuration: If the error arises from a workflow configuration, check the settings and ensure that identifiers or delimiters are correctly defined and do not allow duplicates.
  
  
  Debugging: Use debugging tools to trace where the string is being generated or manipulated. This can help identify the source of the duplicate character.
  
  
  Error Handling: Implement error handling in your workflow or program to catch such issues before they lead to errors. This can include validation checks for string formats.
  
  
  SAP Notes and Documentation: Check SAP Notes or documentation related to the specific version of SAP you are using. There may be known issues or patches that address this error.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Workflow: Understanding how SAP workflows operate can provide insights into how strings are constructed and manipulated.
  String Manipulation Functions: Familiarize yourself with SAP string manipulation functions (like CONCATENATE, REPLACE, etc.) to better handle string operations.
  SAP Community: Engaging with the SAP Community or forums can provide additional insights and solutions from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.