How To Fix WL391 - Inconsistent workflow definition: Unknown ref. point '&' for deadline

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WL - Workflow: run-time messages

• Message number: 391

• Message text: Inconsistent workflow definition: Unknown ref. point '&' for deadline

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WL391 - Inconsistent workflow definition: Unknown ref. point '&' for deadline ?

  The SAP error message WL391 indicates that there is an inconsistency in the workflow definition, specifically related to a deadline reference point that is not recognized. This can occur in SAP Business Workflow when the workflow definition is not properly configured or when there are missing or incorrect references in the workflow.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Reference Point: The error typically arises when a deadline is defined in the workflow, but the reference point (e.g., a task or event) it points to is either missing or incorrectly specified.
  Changes in Workflow Definition: If the workflow definition has been modified (e.g., tasks were deleted or renamed) without updating the associated deadlines, this can lead to inconsistencies.
  Transport Issues: If the workflow was transported from one system to another (e.g., from development to production) and the necessary objects were not included, it can result in missing references.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Workflow Definition:
  
  Go to the workflow definition in the SAP system (using transaction code SWDD).
  Review the deadlines and ensure that all reference points are correctly defined and exist in the workflow.
  
  
  
  Update or Correct Reference Points:
  
  If you find that a reference point is missing or incorrect, update the workflow definition to correct the reference.
  Ensure that all tasks and events that deadlines refer to are present and correctly configured.
  
  
  
  Recreate the Workflow:
  
  In some cases, it may be easier to recreate the workflow definition if it is too complex or if there are multiple inconsistencies.
  
  
  
  Transport Objects:
  
  If the issue arose after a transport, ensure that all necessary objects related to the workflow (including tasks, events, and deadlines) were included in the transport request.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making changes, test the workflow to ensure that it functions correctly and that the error message no longer appears.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWDD: Workflow Builder - to edit and manage workflows.
  SWI1: Work Item Selection - to monitor work items and check for errors.
  SWI2_FREQ: To analyze workflow instances and their statuses.
  
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on workflow management and troubleshooting.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues related to workflow errors and inconsistencies.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the WL391 error and ensure that your workflow definitions are consistent and functional.