Stop googling SAP errors. Use our Free Essentials plan instead - no credit card needed. Start Now

Close

How To Fix SWF_UTL_000022 - Element '&1' does not have a valid object reference (&2)


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: 022

  • Message text: Element '&1' does not have a valid object reference (&2)

  • Show details Hide details


  • 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_UTL_000022 - Element '&1' does not have a valid object reference (&2) ?

    The SAP error message SWF_UTL_000022 indicates that there is an issue with an element in a workflow that does not have a valid object reference. This typically occurs in the context of SAP Business Workflow, where the workflow engine is trying to access an object that is either not defined, has been deleted, or is otherwise invalid.

    Cause:

    1. Invalid Object Reference: The element specified in the error message (&1) is trying to reference an object (&2) that does not exist or is not accessible in the current context.
    2. Deleted or Inactive Objects: The object might have been deleted or is inactive, leading to the workflow being unable to find it.
    3. Incorrect Configuration: There may be a misconfiguration in the workflow definition or the associated business objects.
    4. Authorization Issues: The user executing the workflow may not have the necessary authorizations to access the object.

    Solution:

    1. Check Object Existence: Verify that the object referenced in the error message exists in the system. You can do this by checking the relevant transaction codes or tables associated with the object.
    2. Review Workflow Configuration: Go through the workflow definition and ensure that all elements are correctly configured and that they reference valid objects.
    3. Check for Deletions: If the object was recently deleted, consider restoring it or updating the workflow to reference a valid object.
    4. Authorization Check: Ensure that the user executing the workflow has the necessary authorizations to access the object. You can check this using transaction SU53 to analyze authorization issues.
    5. Debugging: If the issue persists, you may need to debug the workflow to identify where the invalid reference is occurring. Use transaction SWI1 to analyze workflow instances and check for errors.
    6. Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific workflow and object types to see if there are any known issues or additional configuration steps required.

    Related Information:

    • Transaction Codes:
      • SWI1: Work Item Selection
      • SWI2_FREQ: Work Item Selection by Frequency
      • SWDD: Workflow Builder
    • SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
    • Community Forums: Consider searching or posting in SAP community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.

    By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the SWF_UTL_000022 error in your SAP system.

    • Do you have any question about this error?


      Upgrade now to chat with this error.


Instant HelpGet instant SAP help. Sign up for our Free Essentials Plan.


Related SAP Error Messages

Click the links below to see the following related messages:

Click on this link to search all SAP messages.


Rating
The AI Support Assistant is great. It provides comprehensive assistance even on the most difficult issues. I highly recommend this service.
Rate 1
John Jordan
SAP Consultant & Author