How To Fix USMD5040 - Workflow cannot be started

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: USMD5 - Master Data: Workflow

• Message number: 040

• Message text: Workflow cannot be started

What causes this issue?

Either no workflow is assigned to the change request type or the
workflow that is assigned does not exist.

System Response

The change request was not submitted and no workflow was started.

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

Check in Customizing if an existing workflow has been assigned.
If so, it is possible that the event type linkage of the BOR object type
BUS2250 for event <LS>CREATED</> for the workflow used (<LS>Receiver
Type</>) has been deactivated. Check this linkage in the SAP Area Menu
<LS>Tools </>under <LS>Business Workflow -> Development -> Definition
tools -> Events -> Event Linkages -> Type Linkages</> (<AB>SWETYPV</>)
and activate the appropriate type linkage, if necessary.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message USMD5040 - Workflow cannot be started ?

  The SAP error message USMD5040, which states "Workflow cannot be started," typically occurs in the context of SAP Master Data Governance (MDG) when there is an issue with initiating a workflow process. This error can arise due to various reasons, and understanding the cause is essential for finding a solution.
  Causes of USMD5040
  
  
  Workflow Configuration Issues: The workflow may not be properly configured in the system. This could include missing or incorrect settings in the workflow definition.
  
  
  Missing Workflow Template: The workflow template that is supposed to be used for the process may not exist or may not be activated.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: The user attempting to start the workflow may not have the necessary authorizations to initiate it.
  
  
  Technical Errors: There may be underlying technical issues, such as problems with the workflow engine or database inconsistencies.
  
  
  Incorrect Business Rules: If there are business rules associated with the workflow that are not met, the workflow may fail to start.
  
  
  System Configuration: The system may not be properly configured to handle the specific type of workflow being initiated.
  
  
  Solutions to USMD5040
  
  
  Check Workflow Configuration:
  
  Verify that the workflow is correctly configured in the SAP system. Check the workflow definition and ensure that all necessary steps and conditions are defined.
  
  
  
  Activate Workflow Template:
  
  Ensure that the relevant workflow template is activated. You can do this in the SAP Business Workflow transaction (SWDD) or through the relevant MDG configuration.
  
  
  
  Review Authorizations:
  
  Check the user’s authorizations to ensure they have the necessary permissions to start the workflow. This can be done using transaction SU53 to analyze authorization issues.
  
  
  
  Check for Technical Errors:
  
  Look into the system logs (transaction SLG1) for any technical errors related to the workflow. This can provide insights into what might be going wrong.
  
  
  
  Validate Business Rules:
  
  Review any business rules associated with the workflow to ensure that all conditions are met before attempting to start the workflow.
  
  
  
  System Configuration Review:
  
  Consult with your SAP Basis team to ensure that the system is configured correctly for workflow processing. This includes checking settings in the workflow customizing.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes:
  
  Search for relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error. SAP frequently releases notes that provide fixes or workarounds for known issues.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  If changes are made to the configuration or authorizations, conduct tests to ensure that the workflow can be started successfully.
  
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SWDD (Workflow Builder), SWI1 (Work Item Selection), and SLG1 (Application Log) for troubleshooting.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for Master Data Governance and Workflow Management for detailed guidance on configuration and troubleshooting.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or support channels for additional insights and shared experiences from other users facing similar issues.
  
  By systematically addressing these areas, you should be able to identify the cause of the USMD5040 error and implement an appropriate solution.