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How To Fix WS639 - No reference information exists


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: WS - Supplier Billing Document

  • Message number: 639

  • Message text: No reference information exists

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

    Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

    To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

    Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.



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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WS639 - No reference information exists ?

    Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation for the SAP error message WS639 - No reference information exists:


    SAP Error Message: WS639 - No reference information exists


    Cause:

    The error WS639 typically occurs in SAP Workflow when the system tries to access or process a workflow container element or reference that does not exist or has not been properly initialized. In other words, the workflow is expecting some reference data (like an object key, task reference, or container element) which is missing or has not been passed correctly.

    Common scenarios include:

    • The workflow container element that is being accessed is empty or not filled.
    • The referenced object (e.g., business object instance) does not exist or was not created.
    • The workflow step is trying to use a reference that was never set or was deleted.
    • Incorrect binding or mapping of container elements in the workflow definition.

    Solution:

    To resolve the WS639 error, you can follow these steps:

    1. Check Workflow Container Elements:

      • Go to the workflow in question and check the container elements.
      • Verify that the container element referenced in the step or task is correctly filled with valid data.
      • Use transaction SWI1 (Work Item Selection) or SWI2_FREQ to find the workflow instance and inspect the container.
    2. Verify Object References:

      • Ensure that the business object instance or reference object exists.
      • If the workflow expects an object key, confirm that the key is valid and the object instance is created.
    3. Check Binding and Mapping:

      • In the workflow builder (transaction SWDD), check the binding of container elements between steps.
      • Make sure that the output of one step is correctly mapped to the input of the next step.
      • If you are using methods or tasks that require reference parameters, verify that these are properly bound.
    4. Debug the Workflow:

      • Use transaction SWUS or SWI1 to debug the workflow.
      • Set breakpoints in the workflow container or in the methods/tasks to see where the reference is missing.
    5. Review Custom Code or Enhancements:

      • If the workflow involves custom methods or user exits, check the code to ensure that the reference information is being set correctly.
      • Make sure no logic is deleting or failing to set the reference.
    6. Recreate or Restart Workflow:

      • Sometimes, restarting the workflow or recreating the workflow instance after fixing the container elements can help.

    Related Information:

    • Transaction Codes:

      • SWI1 - Work Item Selection (to find and analyze workflow instances)
      • SWI2_FREQ - Display Workflow Logs
      • SWDD - Workflow Builder (to check container elements and bindings)
      • SWUS - Workflow Debugger
    • SAP Notes:

      • Check SAP Notes related to WS639 for any known issues or patches.
      • Example SAP Note: 0000000 (replace with actual note number if available)
    • Common Workflow Concepts:

      • Workflow container elements are placeholders for data passed between steps.
      • Reference information usually means a pointer to an object instance or task.
      • Proper binding and initialization of container elements are crucial.

    Summary:

    WS639 - No reference information exists means the workflow is trying to access a reference that is missing or not initialized. The fix involves verifying and correcting the workflow container elements, ensuring proper binding, and confirming that referenced objects exist.


    If you provide more context (e.g., which workflow or step triggers the error), I can help with more specific guidance.

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