How To Fix WD329 - Element '&' already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WD - Workflow definition

• Message number: 329

• Message text: Element '&' already exists

What causes this issue?

The element entered already exists but has the incorrect data type. It
cannot include the document.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Please enter a different name for the element. It will then be
automatically created.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WD329 - Element '&' already exists ?

  The SAP Web Dynpro error message:
  WD329 Element '&' already exists
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs when you try to create or add an element (such as a UI element, context node, or attribute) in a Web Dynpro component or view that already exists with the same name or identifier. The ampersand (&) in the message is a placeholder for the actual element name.
  Common scenarios include:
  
  Adding a context node or attribute with a name that already exists in the context.
  Creating UI elements (like input fields, buttons) with duplicate IDs or names.
  Importing or copying components/views that contain elements with conflicting names.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check for Duplicate Elements:
  
  Open the Web Dynpro component or view where the error occurs.
  Navigate to the context tab and verify if the node or attribute with the given name already exists.
  Check the UI elements tree for duplicate element IDs or names.
  
  
  
  Rename or Remove Duplicates:
  
  If duplicates are found, rename the new element to a unique name.
  Alternatively, remove the duplicate element if it is not needed.
  
  
  
  Clean and Rebuild:
  
  Sometimes, inconsistencies in the development environment cause this error.
  Perform a clean build of the Web Dynpro component.
  Use the "Clean" option in the ABAP Workbench or Eclipse-based ADT.
  
  
  
  Check for Copy/Paste Issues:
  
  If you copied elements from another component/view, ensure that the names are unique in the current context.
  
  
  
  Check for Generated Code or Metadata:
  
  In rare cases, the metadata cache might cause conflicts.
  Try to reset the Web Dynpro cache or restart the SAP GUI/IDE.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Note: Check SAP Notes related to Web Dynpro development for any known bugs or patches.
  Transaction: Use SE80 or Eclipse ADT for Web Dynpro development.
  Context Nodes and Attributes: Naming conflicts in context nodes and attributes are a common cause.
  Web Dynpro Naming Conventions: Follow consistent naming conventions to avoid duplicates.
  Debugging: Use the Web Dynpro debugger or logs to trace where the duplicate element is being created.
  
  
  Summary:
  The error "WD329 Element '&' already exists" means you are trying to create a Web Dynpro element with a name that already exists. To fix it, identify and remove or rename the duplicate element, then rebuild your component.
  
  If you provide the exact element name or the context where this error occurs, I can help you with more specific guidance.