How To Fix WI401 - Enter a valid object type

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WI - BPT Workflow: Messages from Info System

• Message number: 401

• Message text: Enter a valid object type

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WI401 - Enter a valid object type ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WI401 - Enter a valid object type
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs when you enter an invalid or incorrect object type in a workflow-related transaction or configuration. The system expects a valid object type (such as BUS objects in SAP Business Workflow), but the input does not match any recognized object type in the system.
  Common scenarios causing this error include:
  
  Typing an incorrect object type name manually.
  Using an object type that does not exist or is not activated in the system.
  Reference to a custom object type that has not been properly created or registered.
  Mistake in workflow container elements or task definitions where object types are specified.
  
  
  Explanation:
  In SAP Business Workflow, an object type represents a business object (e.g., a purchase order, a material, a sales order) that the workflow can work with. These object types are defined in the Business Object Repository (BOR). When you create or maintain workflows, tasks, or container elements, you must specify valid object types.
  If the system cannot find the object type you entered, it throws the WI401 error.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check the Object Type Name:
  
  Verify that the object type name you entered is correct.
  Object types are case-sensitive and must match exactly the names defined in the BOR.
  
  
  
  Verify Object Type Existence:
  
  Use transaction SWO1 (Business Object Builder) to check if the object type exists.
  If it does not exist, you may need to create or import the object type.
  
  
  
  Activate the Object Type:
  
  If the object type exists but is inactive, activate it in SWO1.
  
  
  
  Use Search Help:
  
  When entering the object type, use the F4 help (search help) to select a valid object type instead of typing manually.
  
  
  
  Check Custom Object Types:
  
  If you are using custom object types, ensure they are properly created, generated, and activated.
  Make sure the relevant BOR objects are transported to the system where you are working.
  
  
  
  Review Workflow Container and Task Definitions:
  
  Check the container elements and task definitions where the object type is referenced.
  Correct any invalid or misspelled object type entries.
  
  
  
  
  Additional Information:
  
  Transaction SWO1: Used to display, create, and maintain Business Object Repository (BOR) objects.
  Business Object Repository (BOR): Central repository of business objects used in SAP workflows.
  Workflow Container: Holds data objects (container elements) that workflows use; these elements must have valid object types.
  Related Messages: WI400 (Invalid object key), WI402 (Enter a valid object key), which often appear in conjunction with WI401.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  Error WI401 means the system does not recognize the object type you entered.
  Verify and correct the object type using SWO1 and F4 help.
  Ensure the object type exists, is active, and properly maintained in the BOR.
  Correct any workflow container or task definitions referencing invalid object types.
  
  
  If you need further assistance, please provide the context where the error occurs (e.g., transaction, workflow step) and the object type you are trying to use.