How To Fix WL426 - Workflow '&' number & step &: Container element '&' does not exist

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 426

• Message text: Workflow '&' number & step &: Container element '&' does not exist

What causes this issue?

The container element &V4& is missing in the workflow container (for
the value or result of an assignment for example).

System Response

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

INCLUDE NA_WF_ERROR OBJECT DOKU ID TX

How to fix this error?

Make sure the missing container element is defined in the workflow
container and is assigned a value at runtime. Check:
The definition of the workflow involved
The binding between the individual workflow activities
Is there an activity which is executed before the step concerned? Did
this activity actually return the result &V4& which is then available
in step &V3&?
For local handling of the error, call the container editor for workflow
number &V1& and enter the missing container element &V4& or assign it
an appropriate value.
INCLUDE NA_WF-ADMINISTRATOR OBJECT DOKU ID TX

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WL426 - Workflow '&' number & step &: Container element '&' does not exist ?

  The SAP error message WL426 indicates that there is an issue with a workflow in the SAP system. Specifically, it states that a container element referenced in the workflow does not exist. This can occur for several reasons, and understanding the cause and potential solutions can help resolve the issue.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Container Element: The workflow is trying to access a container element that has not been defined or initialized in the workflow context.
  Incorrect Workflow Configuration: The workflow might be incorrectly configured, leading to references to non-existent elements.
  Changes in Workflow Structure: If the workflow was modified (e.g., elements were renamed or deleted), it could lead to references to outdated or non-existent elements.
  Data Transfer Issues: If the workflow is dependent on data from another process or transaction, and that data is not available or has not been transferred correctly, it can lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Workflow Definition: Review the workflow definition in the SAP Business Workflow (transaction code SWDD). Ensure that all container elements referenced in the workflow steps are correctly defined and exist.
  Initialize Container Elements: Make sure that all necessary container elements are initialized before they are accessed in the workflow. This can be done by adding appropriate steps to initialize these elements.
  Review Workflow Steps: Go through the steps of the workflow to ensure that they are correctly configured and that there are no references to deleted or renamed elements.
  Debugging: Use the workflow debugging tools (transaction code SWI1 or SWI2) to trace the execution of the workflow and identify where the error occurs. This can help pinpoint the exact step and container element causing the issue.
  Check for Changes: If the workflow was recently modified, check the change logs to see if any relevant elements were altered or removed.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to the specific workflow you are working with for any known issues or additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWDD: Workflow Builder - to create or modify workflows.
  SWI1: Work Item Selection - to monitor and manage work items.
  SWI2: Work Item Selection - to view work items in a more detailed manner.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the specific workflow or error message.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the WL426 error and implement a solution to resolve it.