How To Fix WL480 - Workflow definition '&1' number &2 (&3) cannot be started at present

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 480

• Message text: Workflow definition '&1' number &2 (&3) cannot be started at present

What causes this issue?

The relevant workflow definition does not allow a new workflow instance
to be started at present.

System Response

The workflow was not started.

How to fix this error?

If there is no longer a reason for preventing new workflows from being
started, reset the appropriate indcator in the workflow definition.

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WL480 - Workflow definition '&1' number &2 (&3) cannot be started at present ?

  The SAP error message WL480 indicates that a specific workflow definition cannot be started at the present time. This error can occur for various reasons, and understanding the cause is essential for finding a solution. Here are some common causes, potential solutions, and related information:
  Causes:
  
  Workflow Definition Inactive: The workflow definition may not be active or may have been deactivated.
  Missing or Incorrect Configuration: There may be missing or incorrect configuration settings related to the workflow.
  Authorization Issues: The user attempting to start the workflow may not have the necessary authorizations.
  System Errors: There could be system-related issues, such as database problems or system performance issues.
  Dependencies Not Met: The workflow may have dependencies on other processes or data that are not currently available.
  Workflow Versioning: If there are multiple versions of the workflow, the system may be trying to start an outdated version.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Workflow Status: Verify that the workflow definition is active. You can do this by navigating to the workflow definition in the SAP system and checking its status.
  
  Transaction Code: SWDD (Workflow Builder)
  
  
  
  Review Configuration: Ensure that all necessary configuration settings for the workflow are correctly set up. This includes checking any related business objects or event triggers.
  
  
  Check Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to start the workflow. You can check this in the user roles and profiles.
  
  
  System Health Check: Perform a system health check to identify any underlying issues that may be affecting workflow execution. This may include checking for database locks, performance issues, or system logs.
  
  
  Review Dependencies: Check if there are any prerequisites or dependencies that need to be fulfilled before the workflow can be started.
  
  
  Update Workflow Version: If there are multiple versions of the workflow, ensure that the correct version is being used. You may need to activate the latest version.
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes: Look for any relevant SAP Notes that may address known issues related to the specific workflow or error message.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  SWDD: Workflow Builder
  SWI1: Work Item Selection
  SWI2_FREQ: Work Item Selection for a User
  SWI2_DURA: Work Item Selection for a Duration
  
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for detailed information on workflows and error handling.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights and solutions from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the WL480 error and implement a suitable solution. If the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.