How To Fix W8147 - Container definition passed is empty

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: W8 - Workflow: Expressions, data flow

• Message number: 147

• Message text: Container definition passed is empty

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W8147 - Container definition passed is empty ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation for the SAP error message W8147: Container definition passed is empty:
  
  Error Message
  W8147: Container definition passed is empty
  
  Cause
  This warning message typically occurs in the context of SAP Business Workflow or when dealing with container elements in workflows or function modules that expect a container definition.
  
  The container is a data structure used in workflows to pass data between steps.
  The message indicates that the container definition (i.e., the structure or template that defines what data the container should hold) has not been provided or is empty.
  This can happen if:
  
  The container has not been properly initialized.
  The container definition was not passed to a function module or method that requires it.
  There is a programming or configuration error where the container is expected but missing.
  The workflow step or method is called without the necessary container data.
  
  
  
  
  When does it occur?
  
  When calling function modules like SAP_WAPI_CREATE_CONTAINER or similar workflow container-related functions without passing a valid container definition.
  When a workflow step is executed but the container is not properly set up.
  During workflow development or runtime if the container is not correctly linked or defined.
  
  
  Solution
  To resolve this warning, you should:
  
  
  Check the Container Definition:
  
  Ensure that the container definition is correctly created and assigned.
  In the workflow builder (transaction SWDD), verify that the container elements are properly defined for the relevant step.
  
  
  
  Initialize the Container Properly:
  
  When creating or manipulating containers programmatically, make sure to pass a valid container definition.
  For example, when using SAP_WAPI_CREATE_CONTAINER, pass the correct container definition name.
  
  
  
  Verify Workflow Step Configuration:
  
  Check the workflow step where the error occurs.
  Make sure the container is linked to the step and that the container elements are correctly mapped.
  
  
  
  Debugging:
  
  Use the debugger to check the container contents at runtime.
  Verify that the container is not empty before it is passed to the function or workflow step.
  
  
  
  Check for Missing or Incorrect Parameters:
  
  If you are calling a function module or method, ensure all required parameters, especially the container definition, are correctly passed.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information
  
  SAP Workflow Container: The container is a central concept in SAP workflows, used to hold data passed between steps.
  Transaction SWDD: Workflow Builder, where you can define and check container elements.
  Function Modules: SAP_WAPI_CREATE_CONTAINER, SAP_WAPI_CONTAINER_GET, SAP_WAPI_CONTAINER_SET are commonly used for container operations.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to workflow container issues if the problem persists.
  
  
  Summary
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Details
  
  
  
  
  Error
  W8147: Container definition passed is empty
  
  
  Cause
  Container definition not provided or empty
  
  
  Solution
  Ensure container definition is created and passed correctly; verify workflow step container setup
  
  
  Context
  SAP Business Workflow, container handling
  
  
  
  
  If you provide more context (e.g., where exactly this error occurs, custom code or standard workflow), I can help with more specific guidance.