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How To Fix WF_CONT002 - &1 is not a valid element name


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: WF_CONT - Workflow Container, Definition Time and Runtime

  • Message number: 002

  • Message text: &1 is not a valid element name

  • Show details Hide details
  • What causes this issue?

    The ID of a container element must begin with a letter, and can contain
    letters, digits and underscores (_) in any sequence after that. The ID
    must be at least two characters long. The maximum length is 32
    characters.

    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?

    Choose an ID that adheres to these conventions.

    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 WF_CONT002 - &1 is not a valid element name ?

    The SAP error message:

    WF_CONT002 &1 is not a valid element name

    typically occurs in the context of SAP Workflow. Here's a detailed explanation of the cause, solution, and related information:


    Cause

    • The error indicates that the workflow container element name specified (represented by &1 in the message) is not valid.
    • This usually happens when:
      • The container element name used in the workflow step or in the workflow container does not exist.
      • There is a typo or mismatch in the container element name.
      • The container element has been deleted or not properly defined in the workflow container.
      • The workflow is trying to access or bind to a container element that is not declared or is incorrectly referenced.

    When does it occur?

    • When you try to start or execute a workflow and the system tries to access a container element that is not valid.
    • When you try to assign or map container elements in workflow steps or tasks.
    • During workflow import/export or transport if container elements are missing or inconsistent.

    Solution

    1. Check the Container Element Name:

      • Go to the workflow builder (transaction SWDD).
      • Open the workflow definition.
      • Check the container elements defined in the workflow container.
      • Verify that the element name referenced in the error message exists exactly as used (case-sensitive).
    2. Check Step Container Bindings:

      • In the workflow step where the error occurs, check the container element bindings.
      • Make sure the element names used in the binding are valid and exist in the workflow container or task container.
    3. Correct Typographical Errors:

      • Correct any spelling mistakes or case mismatches in the container element names.
    4. Re-import or Re-transport Workflow:

      • If the workflow was imported or transported, ensure that the container elements were correctly transported.
      • Re-import or re-transport if necessary.
    5. Check Task Container Elements:

      • If the container element is related to a task, check the task container elements (transaction PFTC).
      • Make sure the task container elements are consistent and correctly defined.
    6. Use SAP Standard Tools:

      • Use transaction SWU3 to check workflow customizing.
      • Use transaction SWI1 or SWI2_FREQ to analyze workflow logs and errors.

    Related Information

    • Transaction Codes:

      • SWDD - Workflow Builder
      • PFTC - Maintain Tasks
      • SWI1 - Workflow Log
      • SWI2_FREQ - Workflow Error Log
      • SWU3 - Workflow Customizing
    • SAP Notes:

      • Check SAP Notes related to workflow container element errors for your specific SAP version.
      • Sometimes, patches or support packages fix related issues.
    • Documentation:

      • SAP Help Portal on Workflow Container Elements
      • SAP Workflow Administration Guide

    Summary

    Aspect Description
    Error WF_CONT002 &1 is not a valid element name
    Cause Invalid or non-existent container element name referenced in workflow or task container
    Solution Verify and correct container element names in workflow container and step/task bindings
    Tools SWDD, PFTC, SWI1, SWI2_FREQ, SWU3
    Additional Check for transport/import issues, SAP Notes, and workflow customizing settings

    If you provide the exact container element name (&1 value) or the context where the error occurs, I can help you with more specific guidance.

    • Do you have any question about this error?


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