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How To Fix WF_CONT120 - The specified value is not valid for the element


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

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

  • Message number: 120

  • Message text: The specified value is not valid for the element

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

    Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

    To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

    Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.



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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WF_CONT120 - The specified value is not valid for the element ?

    Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation for the SAP error message WF_CONT120: The specified value is not valid for the element:


    Error Message

    WF_CONT120: The specified value is not valid for the element


    Cause

    This error occurs in SAP Workflow when a container element is assigned a value that does not match the expected data type or domain of that element. In SAP Workflow, each container element has a defined data type (e.g., CHAR, NUMC, INT, structure, table, etc.). If you try to assign a value that is incompatible with this data type, the system raises this error.

    Common causes include:

    • Assigning a value of the wrong data type (e.g., assigning a string to an integer element).
    • Assigning a value that exceeds the length or domain restrictions of the element.
    • Passing an incorrect or uninitialized variable to the container element.
    • Using wrong container element names or misspelling them.
    • Trying to assign a complex structure or table to a simple element or vice versa.

    Solution

    To resolve this error, follow these steps:

    1. Check the Container Element Definition:

      • Go to the workflow builder (transaction SWDD).
      • Check the container element's data type and domain.
      • Verify the expected data type and length.
    2. Verify the Value Being Assigned:

      • Check the source of the value you are assigning.
      • Ensure the value matches the expected data type and length.
      • If the value is coming from a task or method, check the parameter mapping.
    3. Correct the Assignment:

      • If you are assigning a literal or variable, make sure it is compatible.
      • Use appropriate conversion functions if necessary (e.g., CONV, MOVE, or explicit type casting).
      • For structures or tables, ensure you assign the entire structure/table, not a single field or vice versa.
    4. Check Container Element Names:

      • Make sure the container element name used in the assignment is correct and exists in the workflow container.
    5. Debug the Workflow:

      • Use transaction SWUS or SWI1 to find the workflow instance.
      • Debug the workflow to see the exact point where the assignment fails.
      • Check the values and types of variables at runtime.
    6. Adjust Domain or Data Element if Needed:

      • If the data element/domain is too restrictive, consider adjusting it (with caution and proper transport management).

    Related Information

    • SAP Notes: Search for SAP Notes related to WF_CONT120 for any known issues or patches.
    • Workflow Container: The container is a key concept in SAP Workflow; understanding container elements and their data types is crucial.
    • Transaction Codes:
      • SWDD - Workflow Builder
      • SWUS - Workflow Debugger
      • SWI1 - Workflow Log
    • SAP Help: Refer to SAP Workflow documentation for container elements and data types.
    • Common Scenarios:
      • Passing parameters between tasks.
      • Assigning values in container assignment steps.
      • Using methods or function modules in workflows.

    Example

    If you have a container element CUSTOMER_ID defined as NUMC(10) and you try to assign a character string longer than 10 characters or a non-numeric string, you will get this error.

    Correct assignment:

    DATA lv_customer_id TYPE numc10.
    lv_customer_id = '0000123456'. " 10 numeric characters

    Assign lv_customer_id to the container element CUSTOMER_ID.


    If you provide the specific context or code snippet where the error occurs, I can help you with a more precise solution.

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