How To Fix W/166 - Start phase cannot be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: W/ -

• Message number: 166

• Message text: Start phase cannot be deleted

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W/166 - Start phase cannot be deleted ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  W/166 Start phase cannot be deleted
  
  Cause:
  This warning message occurs when you attempt to delete a start phase in a workflow or process definition in SAP. The start phase is a mandatory initial phase in a workflow or process and cannot be deleted because it serves as the entry point for the workflow execution.
  In other words, the system prevents deletion of the start phase to maintain the integrity and proper functioning of the workflow. Deleting it would leave the workflow without a defined starting point, which is not allowed.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Do not delete the start phase. Instead, if you want to modify the workflow start behavior, you should:
  
  Change the attributes or logic within the start phase.
  Create additional phases or steps after the start phase as needed.
  If you want to change the start phase itself, you may need to redefine the workflow or create a new workflow with the desired start phase.
  
  
  
  If you mistakenly tried to delete the start phase, simply cancel the deletion and preserve the start phase.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  The start phase is essential for workflow execution and is usually created automatically when the workflow is defined.
  In SAP Business Workflow (transaction SWDD), the start phase is represented as the initial step or event that triggers the workflow.
  Attempting to delete or modify system-defined or mandatory phases often results in warnings or errors to protect workflow consistency.
  For more details, you can check SAP Notes or the SAP Help Portal related to workflow management and phase handling.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  The error W/166 indicates that the start phase of a workflow cannot be deleted because it is mandatory. The solution is to avoid deleting it and instead modify the workflow logic or create new phases as needed.