How To Fix WL852 - Work item &: Workflow data cannot be read

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 852

• Message text: Work item &: Workflow data cannot be read

What causes this issue?

The type-specific data for the specified work item saved by the
workflow manager (WFM) cannot be read.

System Response

The action was terminated.

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WL852 - Work item &: Workflow data cannot be read ?

  The SAP error message WL852, which states "Work item &: Workflow data cannot be read," typically indicates that there is an issue with accessing the workflow data associated with a specific work item. This can occur for several reasons, and understanding the cause is essential for troubleshooting the issue effectively.
  Causes of WL852 Error
  
  Work Item Deletion: The work item may have been deleted or is no longer available in the system.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the workflow data.
  Workflow Definition Issues: There may be a problem with the workflow definition itself, such as missing or incorrect configuration.
  Database Issues: There could be issues with the database that prevent the retrieval of workflow data.
  Transport Issues: If the workflow was transported from one system to another, there may be inconsistencies or missing objects in the target system.
  System Performance: High system load or performance issues may temporarily prevent access to workflow data.
  
  Solutions to WL852 Error
  
  
  Check Work Item Status: Verify if the work item still exists in the system. You can do this by checking the workflow log or using transaction codes like SWI1 (Work Item Selection) or SWI2_FREQ (Work Item Overview).
  
  
  Review Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access the workflow. You can check this using transaction SU53 to analyze authorization failures.
  
  
  Inspect Workflow Definition: Use transaction SWDD (Workflow Builder) to check the workflow definition for any inconsistencies or errors. Ensure that all necessary objects are active and correctly configured.
  
  
  Database Consistency Check: Perform a database consistency check to ensure that there are no issues with the underlying data. This may involve working with your database administrator.
  
  
  Transport Check: If the workflow was recently transported, verify that all necessary objects were included in the transport request and that they are correctly activated in the target system.
  
  
  System Performance Monitoring: Monitor system performance and check for any ongoing issues that may affect workflow processing. If necessary, consult with your Basis team to resolve performance bottlenecks.
  
  
  Check SAP Notes: Look for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for known issues.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SWI1, SWI2_FREQ, SWDD, and SWI6 (Workflow Log).
  SAP Support: If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP Support for further assistance.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to workflows and error handling for additional insights.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the WL852 error effectively.