How To Fix SWF_UTL_000018 - Object reference expected: Object type missing for element '&1'

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: 018

• Message text: Object reference expected: Object type missing for element '&1'

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SWF_UTL_000018 - Object reference expected: Object type missing for element '&1' ?

  The SAP error message SWF_UTL_000018 indicates that there is an issue with a workflow where an object reference is expected, but the object type is missing for a specific element. This error typically occurs in the context of SAP Business Workflow when the system is unable to determine the type of an object that is required for processing.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Object Type: The most common cause of this error is that the workflow definition is referencing an object type that is not defined or is incorrectly configured.
  Incorrect Workflow Configuration: There may be a misconfiguration in the workflow steps or the binding of the workflow to the relevant business objects.
  Changes in Object Types: If there have been recent changes to the object types or the workflow definitions, it may lead to inconsistencies.
  Transport Issues: If the workflow was transported from one system to another, there might be missing dependencies or objects that were not transported correctly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Workflow Definition: Review the workflow definition in transaction SWDD (Workflow Builder) to ensure that all object types are correctly defined and that there are no missing references.
  Validate Object Types: Ensure that the object types referenced in the workflow are correctly defined in the system. You can check this in transaction SWO1 (Business Object Builder).
  Recreate or Adjust Workflow: If the workflow is corrupted or misconfigured, consider recreating the workflow or adjusting the steps to ensure that all necessary object types are included.
  Transport Check: If the issue arose after a transport, verify that all necessary objects were included in the transport request and that they are present in the target system.
  Debugging: If the issue persists, you may need to debug the workflow to identify where the object reference is failing. Use transaction SWI1 to analyze workflow instances and check for errors.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWDD: Workflow Builder
  SWI1: Work Item Selection
  SWO1: Business Object Builder
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address known issues related to this error message.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation on workflows for best practices and troubleshooting tips.
  
  If the problem continues after following these steps, consider reaching out to SAP support or consulting with a technical expert who specializes in SAP workflows.