How To Fix USMD2351 - Workflow changes only affect new change requests

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: USMD2 - Master Data: UI Modeling

• Message number: 351

• Message text: Workflow changes only affect new change requests

What causes this issue?

You have changed the workflow template assignment of this change request
type.

System Response

Change requests of this change request type that are not finalized
follow the workflow of the former workflow template.
Newly created change requests will follow the workflow of the new
workflow template.

How to fix this error?

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message USMD2351 - Workflow changes only affect new change requests ?

  The SAP error message USMD2351 indicates that workflow changes made in the system will only apply to new change requests and not to existing ones. This message typically arises in the context of SAP Master Data Governance (MDG) when changes are made to the workflow configuration or process.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error message is that the workflow configuration has been modified after existing change requests were created. In SAP MDG, workflows are often tied to specific change requests, and changes to the workflow settings will not retroactively apply to requests that were already initiated. This is a design feature to ensure that existing processes are not disrupted by changes made to workflows.
  Solution:
  To resolve this issue, you can consider the following approaches:
  
  
  Create New Change Requests: Since the changes to the workflow will only affect new change requests, the simplest solution is to create new change requests after the workflow changes have been made.
  
  
  Review Workflow Changes: Ensure that the changes made to the workflow are necessary and that they align with the business requirements. If the changes are not critical, you may choose to leave the existing requests as they are.
  
  
  Test Workflow Changes: Before implementing workflow changes in a production environment, it is advisable to test them in a development or quality assurance environment. This helps to ensure that the changes work as expected and do not disrupt existing processes.
  
  
  Documentation and Communication: Document the changes made to the workflow and communicate them to relevant stakeholders. This ensures that all users are aware of the changes and understand that they will only apply to new requests.
  
  
  Consider Workflow Versioning: If your organization frequently changes workflows, consider implementing a versioning strategy for workflows. This allows you to manage changes more effectively and maintain a history of workflow configurations.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes and Documentation: Check SAP Notes related to workflow management in MDG for any specific guidance or updates that may address your situation.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have implemented.
  Training and Best Practices: Consider training for users involved in workflow management to ensure they understand how changes will impact existing and new change requests.
  
  By following these steps, you can effectively manage the implications of workflow changes in SAP MDG and minimize disruptions to your processes.