How To Fix WFF_FORM_SERVER505 - CL_WFF_META_FORM: Copy not allowed since META FORM DATA not available

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WFF_FORM_SERVER - Web Financials Forms: Form Server

• Message number: 505

• Message text: CL_WFF_META_FORM: Copy not allowed since META FORM DATA not available

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.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WFF_FORM_SERVER505 - CL_WFF_META_FORM: Copy not allowed since META FORM DATA not available ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation of the SAP error message:
  
  SAP Error Message:
  WFF_FORM_SERVER505: CL_WFF_META_FORM: Copy not allowed since META FORM DATA not available
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs in SAP Workflow when the system tries to copy or access a workflow form (meta form) but the underlying meta form data is missing or not available in the system.
  
  Meta form data refers to the design and layout information of a workflow form stored in the SAP system.
  The error typically happens if the meta form was deleted, not transported properly, or the system cannot find the form data in the database.
  It can also occur if the workflow form repository is inconsistent or corrupted.
  Sometimes, this happens after a system upgrade, transport, or client copy where the meta form data was not included or got lost.
  
  
  When does it occur?
  
  When a workflow tries to display or copy a form (e.g., during task processing or form editing).
  When a workflow container or task tries to instantiate a form but the meta form data is missing.
  During workflow development or runtime when accessing forms.
  
  
  Solution / How to fix:
  
  
  Check if the meta form exists:
  
  Use transaction SWF_FORM or SWF_FORM_EDIT to check if the meta form is present.
  If the form is missing, you need to restore or recreate it.
  
  
  
  Restore or recreate the meta form:
  
  If you have a backup or transport request containing the meta form, re-import it.
  If the form was deleted accidentally, recreate the form using the form builder or workflow form editor.
  
  
  
  Check transport requests:
  
  Ensure that the meta form data was included in the transport requests when moving between systems.
  Re-transport the meta form if necessary.
  
  
  
  Check workflow repository consistency:
  
  Run consistency checks for workflow forms.
  Use transaction SWU3 (Workflow Customizing) to check for inconsistencies.
  
  
  
  Check authorizations:
  
  Sometimes, missing authorizations can cause the system to behave as if the form data is missing.
  Verify that the user has the necessary authorizations to access workflow forms.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Patches:
  
  Check SAP Notes for any known bugs related to meta form handling.
  Apply relevant SAP patches or support packages if the issue is due to a known bug.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWF_FORM – Workflow form maintenance
  SWF_FORM_EDIT – Edit workflow forms
  SWU3 – Workflow customizing and consistency check
  SWI1 – Workflow log (to check workflow errors)
  
  
  
  Classes involved:
  
  CL_WFF_META_FORM is the class responsible for handling meta form data in workflow.
  
  
  
  SAP Help:
  
  SAP Workflow documentation on forms and meta forms.
  SAP Notes related to workflow form errors.
  
  
  
  
  Summary:
  The error WFF_FORM_SERVER505 indicates that the workflow meta form data is missing or inaccessible. To resolve it, verify the existence of the meta form, restore or recreate it if missing, ensure proper transport and authorizations, and check for system inconsistencies or bugs.
  
  If you need help with specific steps or transaction usage, feel free to ask!