How To Fix WER251 - Target structure cannot be initial

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WER - Messages for the package WER

• Message number: 251

• Message text: Target structure cannot be initial

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WER251 - Target structure cannot be initial ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WER251 - Target structure cannot be initial
  
  Cause:
  This error typically occurs in SAP Workflow or Business Object Repository (BOR) contexts when a target structure (an importing parameter or a target container element) is expected to be filled with data but is found to be empty (initial) at runtime. The system expects the target structure to have some content, but it remains uninitialized or empty, which leads to this error.
  Common scenarios include:
  
  A workflow container element or BOR method parameter is not properly populated before being passed.
  A method or function module expects a non-initial structure as input or output, but the structure is left empty.
  Incorrect mapping or missing assignment in workflow container elements.
  The target structure is defined as a non-optional parameter but is not filled.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check the Workflow Container or BOR Method Parameters:
  
  Verify that the target structure is correctly filled before the step where the error occurs.
  Ensure that the container element or method parameter is assigned a valid, non-initial value.
  
  
  
  Debug the Workflow or Program:
  
  Use the SAP debugger to check the values of the target structure at runtime.
  Identify where the structure is supposed to be filled and why it remains initial.
  
  
  
  Review Container Element Mapping:
  
  In the workflow builder (transaction SWDD), check the container element mapping for the step causing the error.
  Make sure the source container element is correctly mapped to the target container element.
  
  
  
  Check BOR Method Implementation:
  
  If the error occurs in a BOR method, verify the method implementation to ensure the target structure is properly populated before returning.
  
  
  
  Adjust Parameter Optionality:
  
  If the target structure can be empty in some cases, consider making the parameter optional or handle the empty case explicitly in the code.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes:
  
  Search for SAP Notes related to WER251 for any specific patches or known issues.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWDD - Workflow Builder (to check container elements and mappings)
  SWI1 - Workflow Log (to analyze workflow errors)
  SE24 - Class Builder (to check BOR classes and methods)
  SE37 - Function Builder (to check function modules)
  
  
  
  SAP Help and Documentation:
  
  SAP Workflow documentation on container elements and parameter passing.
  BOR method parameter handling guidelines.
  
  
  
  Common Keywords for Searching SAP Notes or Forums:
  
  "WER251"
  "Target structure cannot be initial"
  "Workflow container element initial"
  "BOR method parameter initial"
  
  
  
  
  Summary:
  WER251 error means the system expected a target structure to be filled but found it empty. The fix involves ensuring that the structure is properly populated before use, checking container mappings, debugging the workflow or method, and adjusting parameter handling as needed.