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How To Fix WD172 - Cannot import element &


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: WD - Workflow definition

  • Message number: 172

  • Message text: Cannot import element &

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  • 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.

    To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

    Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.



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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WD172 - Cannot import element & ?

    SAP Error Message:
    WD172 Cannot import element &


    Cause

    This error typically occurs in the context of Web Dynpro development or runtime when the system tries to import or reference a Web Dynpro element (such as a component, interface, or context node) that does not exist or is not accessible in the current environment.

    Common causes include:

    • The referenced element (component, interface, or context node) has been deleted or renamed.
    • The element is not yet activated or transported to the current system.
    • There is a mismatch or inconsistency in the Web Dynpro component repository.
    • Incorrect or missing import statements in the Web Dynpro component or interface.
    • Corrupted or inconsistent Web Dynpro repository objects.

    Solution

    1. Check the Element Name:
      Identify the element name that cannot be imported (the placeholder & in the message will be replaced by the actual element name in the system). Verify that this element exists in the system.

    2. Activate the Element:
      Ensure that the referenced Web Dynpro component or interface is activated in the system. Use transaction SE80 or SE24 to check and activate the object.

    3. Check Transport and System Consistency:
      If you are working across multiple systems (e.g., DEV, QAS, PRD), make sure the element has been transported and is available in the current system.

    4. Review Import Statements:
      In the Web Dynpro component or interface, check the import declarations. Make sure the element is correctly imported and the namespace/package is correct.

    5. Reimport or Recreate the Element:
      If the element is missing or corrupted, try to reimport it from the source system or recreate it if necessary.

    6. Clear Cache and Regenerate:
      Sometimes, clearing the Web Dynpro cache and regenerating the component can help:

      • Use transaction /IWFND/CACHE_CLEANUP (for SAP Gateway cache).
      • In SE80, right-click the component and choose "Recreate" or "Generate".
    7. Check for OSS Notes:
      Search SAP Support Portal for OSS Notes related to WD172 error. There might be patches or known issues fixed by SAP.


    Related Information

    • Transaction SE80: Web Dynpro component and interface maintenance.
    • Transaction SE24: Class builder, useful if the element is a class/interface.
    • Web Dynpro Development: Understanding component and interface imports.
    • SAP Notes: Search for WD172 or related Web Dynpro import errors.
    • SAP Help Portal: Web Dynpro ABAP documentation for component and interface management.

    Summary

    Aspect Details
    Error WD172 Cannot import element & (element name)
    Cause Missing, inactive, or inaccessible Web Dynpro element (component/interface/context node)
    Solution Verify existence, activate element, check imports, transport consistency, clear cache
    Tools SE80, SE24, /IWFND/CACHE_CLEANUP, SAP Notes

    If you provide the exact element name or context where the error occurs, I can help with more specific guidance.

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