How To Fix WL407 - Workflow '&' no. &: Workflow container already exists in database

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 407

• Message text: Workflow '&' no. &: Workflow container already exists in database

What causes this issue?

When the workflow no. &V2& was started, it was found that the related
workflow container already exists in the database.

System Response

The workflow was not started.

How to fix this error?

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

INCLUDE NA_WF-ADMINISTRATOR OBJECT DOKU ID TX
A problem may have occurred when workflow instance numbers were
assigned resulting in a number being assigned twice by mistake.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WL407 - Workflow '&' no. &: Workflow container already exists in database ?

  The SAP error message WL407 indicates that there is an issue with a workflow container that already exists in the database. This typically occurs when a workflow instance is being created or started, but the system detects that a container with the same identifier already exists. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Workflow Instance: The error usually arises when there is an attempt to create a new workflow instance using a container that is already in use or has not been properly cleared from the database.
  Improper Termination: If a previous workflow instance did not terminate correctly, it may leave behind a container that is still marked as active.
  Database Issues: There could be issues with the database that prevent the proper cleanup of workflow containers.
  Configuration Errors: Incorrect configuration in the workflow settings or parameters may lead to this error.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Active Workflows: Use transaction code SWI1 (Work Item Selection) or SWI2_FREQ (Work Item Selection - Frequency) to check for any active workflow instances that may be causing the conflict. If you find any, you may need to terminate or complete them.
  
  
  Delete Workflow Container: If you identify a stale or orphaned workflow container, you can delete it using transaction code SWWL (Workflow Log). This allows you to remove any workflow instances that are no longer needed.
  
  
  Review Workflow Definitions: Ensure that the workflow definitions are correctly set up and that there are no duplicate definitions that could lead to conflicts.
  
  
  Check for Errors in Workflow Logs: Use transaction code SWI1 or SWI2 to check the workflow logs for any errors or warnings that might provide more context on why the container already exists.
  
  
  Database Cleanup: If the issue persists, consider performing a database cleanup or maintenance to ensure that there are no lingering entries that could be causing the problem.
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error message or provide patches that could resolve underlying issues.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If the problem cannot be resolved through the above steps, it may be necessary to contact SAP Support for further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Workflow Management: Understanding how SAP workflows are managed and the lifecycle of workflow instances can help in troubleshooting similar issues in the future.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SWI1, SWI2, SWWL, and SWI6 (for workflow administration) to effectively manage workflows.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for detailed information on workflow management and error handling.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the WL407 error and implement a solution to resolve it.