How To Fix SWF_XMP020 - No definition exists for the external key

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SWF_XMP - Messages for XML Message Proxies

• Message number: 020

• Message text: No definition exists for the external key

Self-Explanatory Message

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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_XMP020 - No definition exists for the external key ?

  The SAP error message SWF_XMP020, which states "No definition exists for the external key," typically occurs in the context of SAP Workflow or Business Process Management (BPM). This error indicates that the system is unable to find a corresponding definition for a specified external key, which is often used to link workflow instances or tasks to specific business objects or processes.
  Causes:
  
  Missing Definition: The external key being referenced does not have a corresponding definition in the system. This could be due to a configuration issue or a missing entry in the relevant tables.
  Incorrect External Key: The external key provided may be incorrect or malformed, leading the system to fail in locating the appropriate definition.
  Data Deletion: The definition associated with the external key may have been deleted or not created properly.
  Transport Issues: If the workflow definitions were transported from one system to another, there may have been issues during the transport process that resulted in missing definitions.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check External Key: Verify that the external key being used is correct and corresponds to an existing definition in the system.
  Review Workflow Definitions: Go to the relevant transaction (e.g., SWDD for workflow definitions) and check if the workflow definition associated with the external key exists and is active.
  Recreate Missing Definitions: If the definition is missing, you may need to recreate it or restore it from a backup if it was deleted.
  Transport Check: If the issue arose after a transport, check the transport logs for errors and ensure that all necessary objects were transported correctly.
  Debugging: If you have access to debugging tools, you can trace the workflow execution to identify where the error is occurring and gather more context about the missing definition.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  SWDD (Workflow Builder) - To create or modify workflows.
  SWI1 (Work Item Selection) - To check work items and their statuses.
  SWI2_FREQ (Work Item Selection by Frequency) - To analyze work items.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes related to SWF_XMP020 for any specific patches or updates that may address this issue.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation on workflow management for best practices in defining and managing workflows.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis or Workflow team for further assistance.