How To Fix WF_CONT202 - Element & cannot be saved

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 202

• Message text: Element & cannot be saved

What causes this issue?

The persistence set for workflow runtime can save simple data types,
flat, character-type structures and business objects.
References, strings, deep structures and classes cannot be saved with
the old persistence.

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?

Convert the persistence profile in the basic data of the Workflow
Builder to an XML persistence.

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_CONT202 - Element & cannot be saved ?

  The SAP error message:
  WF_CONT202 Element & cannot be saved
  typically occurs in the context of SAP Workflow. Here's a detailed explanation of the cause, solution, and related information:
  
  Cause
  
  The error WF_CONT202 indicates that a workflow container element could not be saved.
  This usually happens when there is an inconsistency or problem with the workflow container element's data or definition.
  Common causes include:
  
  The container element is defined as a reference to an object that does not exist or is not properly instantiated.
  The container element's data type or structure is incorrect or incompatible.
  The workflow container element is locked or the workflow is in a state that prevents changes.
  There is a problem with the underlying object or data that the container element refers to.
  Transport or system inconsistencies where the workflow definition is incomplete or corrupted.
  
  
  
  
  Solution
  
  
  Check Container Element Definition:
  
  Go to transaction SWDD (Workflow Builder).
  Open the workflow and check the container elements.
  Verify that the element mentioned in the error message exists and is correctly defined.
  Ensure the data type of the container element matches the expected type.
  
  
  
  Check Object Existence:
  
  If the container element is an object reference, verify that the referenced object exists and is active.
  Use transaction SWO1 to check the business object and its methods.
  
  
  
  Check Workflow Status:
  
  Make sure the workflow is not locked or in a state that prevents editing.
  If locked, unlock it or create a new version.
  
  
  
  Transport and System Consistency:
  
  If the workflow was transported from another system, ensure all related objects and definitions were transported correctly.
  Re-import or re-activate the workflow if necessary.
  
  
  
  Re-activate Workflow:
  
  Sometimes re-activating the workflow can resolve inconsistencies.
  In SWDD, activate the workflow again.
  
  
  
  Check for Notes and Patches:
  
  Search SAP Notes for WF_CONT202 for any known bugs or patches.
  Apply relevant SAP Notes if available.
  
  
  
  Debugging:
  
  If the problem persists, debugging the workflow container save process may help identify the exact cause.
  Use transaction SWUS or SWI1 to analyze workflow logs and errors.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWDD - Workflow Builder
  SWO1 - Business Object Builder
  SWI1 - Workflow Log
  SWUS - Workflow Runtime Analysis
  
  
  
  SAP Notes:
  
  Check SAP Support Portal for notes related to WF_CONT202.
  Example note numbers may vary depending on SAP version.
  
  
  
  Documentation:
  
  SAP Help Portal on Workflow Container Elements.
  SAP Community forums for similar issues.
  
  
  
  
  Summary
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Details
  
  
  
  
  Error
  WF_CONT202 Element & cannot be saved
  
  
  Cause
  Container element data/type issue, missing object reference, workflow locked or corrupt
  
  
  Solution
  Verify container element, check object existence, unlock workflow, re-activate workflow
  
  
  Tools
  SWDD, SWO1, SWI1, SWUS
  
  
  Additional
  Check SAP Notes, debug workflow container save process
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the exact element name or context, I can help you with more specific guidance.