How To Fix WL638 - Periodic deadline monitoring is switched off

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 638

• Message text: Periodic deadline monitoring is switched off

What causes this issue?

The minute interval for periodical deadline monitoring cannot be
changed since deadline monitoring is currently being carried out on an
individual case basis and not a periodical basis.

System Response

The action was terminated.

How to fix this error?

First change the deadline monitoring from the individual case basis to
periodical. You can then select the minute interval freely. For
technical reasons, however, the minimum interval which can be entered
is three minutes.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WL638 - Periodic deadline monitoring is switched off ?

  The SAP error message WL638, which states "Periodic deadline monitoring is switched off," typically occurs in the context of SAP's workflow management. This message indicates that the system is not set up to monitor deadlines for workflow tasks, which can lead to issues in managing and tracking workflow processes effectively.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error message is that the periodic deadline monitoring feature has been disabled in the SAP system. This feature is essential for ensuring that tasks within workflows are monitored for deadlines, allowing for timely actions and escalations if tasks are not completed within the specified time frames.
  Solution:
  To resolve the WL638 error, you need to enable periodic deadline monitoring in your SAP system. Here are the steps to do this:
  
  
  Access the Workflow Configuration:
  
  Go to transaction code SWU3 (Automatic Workflow Customizing).
  Alternatively, you can navigate through the SAP menu: Tools -> Business Workflow -> Development -> Settings.
  
  
  
  Check Workflow Settings:
  
  In the workflow settings, look for options related to deadline monitoring.
  Ensure that the option for periodic deadline monitoring is activated.
  
  
  
  Adjust the Workflow Settings:
  
  If the option is not enabled, you may need to adjust the settings to enable it. This may involve setting specific parameters or flags that control the monitoring behavior.
  
  
  
  Schedule Background Job:
  
  Ensure that the background job responsible for monitoring deadlines is scheduled and running. This job is typically named SAP_WF_MONITOR or similar.
  You can check this in transaction code SM37 (Job Monitoring) to see if the job is active and running without errors.
  
  
  
  Test the Configuration:
  
  After making the changes, test the workflow to ensure that deadlines are being monitored correctly and that the error message no longer appears.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on workflow configuration and deadline monitoring.
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWI1: Work Item Selection
  SWI2_FREQ: Work Item Selection by Frequency
  SWU0: Workflow Customizing
  
  
  Support: If you continue to experience issues, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis or Workflow administrator for further assistance, or consult SAP support for more specific guidance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the WL638 error and ensure that your SAP workflow processes are monitored effectively for deadlines.