How To Fix USMD5041 - Workflow cannot be started

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: USMD5 - Master Data: Workflow

• Message number: 041

• 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</> has been deactivated. Check this
linkage in the SAP Menu under <LS>Tools -> Business Workflow ->
Development -> Definition tools -> Events -> Event Linkages -> Type
Linkages</> 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 USMD5041 - Workflow cannot be started ?

  The SAP error message USMD5041, 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 for a master data change request. Here are some common causes, solutions, and related information for this error:
  Causes:
  
  Workflow Configuration Issues: The workflow might not be properly configured in the system. This could include missing or incorrect workflow definitions or steps.
  Authorization Problems: The user attempting to start the workflow may not have the necessary authorizations to initiate it.
  Missing Workflow Template: The workflow template required for the specific process may not be available or activated in the system.
  Technical Errors: There could be underlying technical issues, such as problems with the workflow engine or related components.
  Incorrect Data: The data being processed may not meet the criteria required to start the workflow, such as missing mandatory fields or invalid data formats.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Workflow Configuration:
  
  Verify that the workflow is correctly configured in the SAP system. This includes checking the workflow template, steps, and any associated rules.
  Use transaction code SWDD (Workflow Builder) to review the workflow definition.
  
  
  
  Review Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to start the workflow. This can be checked using transaction code SU53 or by consulting with your security team.
  
  
  
  Activate Workflow Template:
  
  If the workflow template is missing or inactive, you may need to activate it. This can be done in transaction code SWDD or SWU3 (Automatic Workflow Customizing).
  
  
  
  Check for Technical Issues:
  
  Look into the system logs (transaction SLG1) for any error messages related to the workflow engine. This can provide insights into any technical issues that may be preventing the workflow from starting.
  
  
  
  Validate Data:
  
  Ensure that all required fields in the master data change request are filled out correctly and that the data adheres to the expected formats.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes:
  
  Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error message or provide patches and updates.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SWDD (Workflow Builder), SWU3 (Automatic Workflow Customizing), and SLG1 (Application Log).
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for Master Data Governance and Workflow Management for detailed guidance on configuration and troubleshooting.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to involve your SAP Basis or technical team for further investigation.