How To Fix WF_CONT059 - Specify a data type or an object type for the element

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 059

• Message text: Specify a data type or an object type for the element

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WF_CONT059 - Specify a data type or an object type for the element ?

  The SAP error message WF_CONT059: "Specify a data type or an object type for the element" typically occurs in the context of SAP Business Workflow when defining or modifying workflow container elements.
  
  Cause
  This error arises because a workflow container element has been created or referenced without specifying its data type or object type. Every container element in a workflow must have a clearly defined type so that the workflow engine knows what kind of data it will hold or process.
  Common scenarios causing this error:
  
  When creating a new container element in the workflow builder, the data type or object type field is left blank.
  When importing or copying workflows, container elements lose their type definitions.
  When modifying container elements, the type is accidentally deleted or not maintained.
  Using a container element in a step or method that expects a typed element, but the element is untyped.
  
  
  Solution
  To resolve the error:
  
  
  Open the Workflow Builder (transaction SWDD) for the workflow in question.
  
  
  Navigate to the Container tab.
  
  
  Locate the container element that triggers the error.
  
  
  Check the Data Type or Object Type field for that element.
  
  
  If it is empty, assign the correct data type or object type:
  
  For simple data elements, specify the ABAP data type (e.g., CHAR10, I, SFLIGHT).
  For object elements, specify the relevant business object type (e.g., BUS1001 for Purchase Order).
  
  
  
  Save and activate the workflow.
  
  
  Test the workflow again to confirm the error is resolved.
  
  
  
  Additional Information
  
  
  Container Elements: These are variables or placeholders in workflows that hold data passed between steps or methods.
  
  
  Data Type vs Object Type:
  
  Data Type: Refers to ABAP dictionary types or elementary types.
  Object Type: Refers to SAP Business Object Repository (BOR) objects.
  
  
  
  Where to find types:
  
  Use transaction SE11 to look up data types.
  Use transaction SWO1 to look up business object types.
  
  
  
  Best Practice: Always define container elements with explicit types to avoid runtime errors.
  
  
  Related SAP Notes: Sometimes, SAP Notes provide patches or additional guidance if this error occurs due to system bugs or inconsistencies.
  
  
  
  Summary
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Description
  
  
  
  
  Error
  WF_CONT059: Specify a data type or object type for the element
  
  
  Cause
  Container element missing data type or object type
  
  
  Solution
  Assign the correct data type or object type in the workflow container
  
  
  Tools
  Workflow Builder (SWDD), Data Dictionary (SE11), BOR (SWO1)
  
  
  
  
  If you need help identifying the correct type, check the method or step where the container element is used, as it usually expects a specific type.