How To Fix WF053 - Return value & of the function module cannot be handled

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WF - Workflow: messages

• Message number: 053

• Message text: Return value & of the function module cannot be handled

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WF053 - Return value & of the function module cannot be handled ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation for the SAP error message:
  
  SAP Error Message:
  WF053 Return value & of the function module cannot be handled
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs in SAP Workflow when a function module used in a workflow step returns a value that the workflow engine cannot process or handle. Specifically, the return parameter of the function module is either of an unsupported type or contains unexpected data that the workflow cannot interpret.
  Common causes include:
  
  The function module's return parameter is not structured as expected by the workflow.
  The return parameter is of a complex or unsupported data type.
  The function module returns an error or unexpected value that the workflow cannot map.
  The workflow step is configured to handle a certain return type, but the function module returns something else.
  
  
  Explanation:
  In SAP Workflow, when you use a function module as a step (e.g., in a method call or a container assignment), the workflow expects the function module to return a value of a certain type or structure. If the return value is incompatible or cannot be assigned to the workflow container element, the system raises this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check the Function Module Return Parameter:
  
  Verify the return parameter of the function module used in the workflow step.
  Ensure it is of a simple data type or a structure that the workflow can handle.
  Avoid complex or deep nested structures unless properly mapped.
  
  
  
  Adjust Workflow Container Element:
  
  Make sure the workflow container element that receives the return value matches the data type of the function module's return parameter.
  If necessary, create a container element with the correct data type.
  
  
  
  Modify the Function Module or Use a Wrapper:
  
  If the function module returns a complex type, consider creating a wrapper function module that converts the return value into a simpler type or structure.
  Use this wrapper in the workflow step instead.
  
  
  
  Check for Errors in the Function Module:
  
  Debug the function module to ensure it does not return error codes or unexpected values.
  Handle exceptions properly inside the function module.
  
  
  
  Review Workflow Step Configuration:
  
  In the workflow builder (transaction SWDD), check the step where the function module is called.
  Verify the import/export parameters and return value mapping.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Documentation:
  
  Search for relevant SAP Notes that might address this issue for your specific SAP version.
  Sometimes, patches or corrections are available.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWDD - Workflow Builder (to check and edit workflow steps)
  SE37 - Function Builder (to check function module interface)
  SWI1 - Workflow Log (to analyze workflow errors)
  
  
  
  SAP Help:
  
  SAP Workflow documentation on function module steps and container elements.
  SAP Note 108011 - "Return value of function module cannot be handled in workflow" (example note, check for your version)
  
  
  
  Debugging Tips:
  
  Use workflow log (SWI1) to identify the exact step causing the error.
  Debug the workflow step to see the return value.
  Debug the function module to check the return parameter.
  
  
  
  
  Summary:
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Details
  
  
  
  
  Cause
  Function module returns a value that workflow cannot handle (type mismatch or unsupported)
  
  
  Solution
  Align return parameter and container element types; use wrapper FM if needed; check FM logic
  
  
  Related Info
  Use SWDD, SE37, SWI1; check SAP Notes; debug workflow and FM
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the name of the function module or the workflow step details, I can help you with more specific guidance.