How To Fix WRF_AT_GENERAL004 - You need to adjust the deadline for recipient &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WRF_AT_GENERAL - General Allocation Table Messages

• Message number: 004

• Message text: You need to adjust the deadline for recipient &1

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WRF_AT_GENERAL004 - You need to adjust the deadline for recipient &1 ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WRF_AT_GENERAL004 – "You need to adjust the deadline for recipient &1"
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs in SAP Workflow when the deadline set for a workflow recipient (user or agent) is not valid or feasible. Specifically, the deadline date/time assigned to the recipient is either missing, set in the past, or conflicts with the workflow's overall timing constraints. The system requires a valid deadline to ensure timely processing of workflow tasks.
  Common scenarios causing this error include:  
  
  The deadline date/time is earlier than the current date/time or the workflow start date.  
  The deadline is not set at all for a recipient who requires one.  
  The deadline conflicts with other workflow timing parameters or business rules.  
  Custom deadline determination logic (e.g., in deadline calculation methods or rules) returns an invalid or empty value.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check and Adjust Deadline Settings:  
  
  Review the deadline configuration for the workflow step or task in the Workflow Builder (transaction SWDD).  
  Ensure that the deadline for the recipient is set correctly and logically (e.g., not in the past).  
  If deadlines are determined dynamically (via methods or rules), debug or review the logic to ensure it returns a valid date/time.
  
  
  
  Verify Deadline Calculation Logic:  
  
  If custom code or business rules are used to calculate deadlines (e.g., in class methods or rule sets), verify that these return valid deadlines.  
  Use transaction SWI1 or SWI2_DIAG to analyze workflow logs and identify where the deadline is set.
  
  
  
  Adjust Workflow Container or Agent Assignment:  
  
  Sometimes the deadline depends on workflow container values or agent assignment. Make sure these are correctly populated before the deadline is set.
  
  
  
  Check Time Zone and System Date/Time:  
  
  Ensure that system date/time and time zone settings are correct, as discrepancies can cause deadline validation errors.
  
  
  
  Testing:  
  
  After adjustments, test the workflow to confirm that the error no longer occurs and deadlines are accepted.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:  
  
  SWDD – Workflow Builder (to check workflow steps and deadlines)  
  SWI1 – Workflow Log (to analyze workflow execution and errors)  
  SWI2_DIAG – Workflow Diagnosis (to troubleshoot workflow issues)  
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Documentation:  
  
  Check SAP Notes related to workflow deadline errors for your specific SAP version.  
  SAP Help Portal: Workflow section for detailed info on deadlines and task processing.
  
  
  
  Common SAP Workflow Concepts:  
  
  Deadlines in workflows are used to monitor and escalate tasks if not processed in time.  
  Deadlines can be absolute (fixed date/time) or relative (e.g., 3 days after task creation).  
  Proper deadline configuration is essential for workflow reliability and timely task completion.
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the workflow ID or more context (e.g., custom deadline logic), I can help you with more specific guidance.