How To Fix WZ161 - No workflow definition

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WZ - Workflow: Model objects

• Message number: 161

• Message text: No workflow definition

What causes this issue?

No workflow definition is available for this multistep task (workflow
task/workflow template).

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

If you wish to use the multistep task, you should define the
corresponding workflow:
<DS:TRAN.PFWF>Define workflow task</>
<DS:TRAN.PFWS>Define workflow template</>

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WZ161 - No workflow definition ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation for the SAP error message WZ161 No workflow definition:
  
  SAP Error Message: WZ161 No workflow definition
  
  Cause:
  The error message WZ161 No workflow definition occurs when the SAP system tries to start or trigger a workflow but cannot find the corresponding workflow definition in the system. This usually means:
  
  The workflow you are trying to start has not been created or activated.
  The workflow ID or template name specified in the process or program is incorrect or does not exist.
  The workflow is not released or has been deleted.
  The workflow container or binding is not properly maintained.
  The workflow is not assigned to the relevant business object or event.
  
  
  Explanation:
  SAP workflows are defined by workflow templates (also called workflow definitions). When a workflow is triggered (manually or automatically), the system looks for the workflow template by its ID. If it cannot find the template, it raises the WZ161 error.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the WZ161 No workflow definition error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Workflow Template Existence:
  
  Go to transaction SWDD (Workflow Builder).
  Enter the workflow template ID you are trying to start.
  Verify if the workflow exists and is active.
  
  
  
  Activate the Workflow:
  
  If the workflow exists but is inactive, activate it in SWDD.
  Only active workflows can be started.
  
  
  
  Verify Workflow ID in the Triggering Program:
  
  Check the program, event, or business object that triggers the workflow.
  Ensure the correct workflow template ID is used.
  
  
  
  Check Workflow Assignment to Business Object:
  
  Use transaction SWO1 to check the business object.
  Verify that the workflow is assigned to the correct event of the business object.
  
  
  
  Check Workflow Customizing:
  
  In some cases, workflows are assigned via customizing (SPRO).
  Verify the workflow assignment in the relevant customizing node.
  
  
  
  Transport and System Consistency:
  
  If the workflow was recently transported, ensure the transport was successful.
  Check if the workflow exists in the current system.
  
  
  
  Check Workflow Container and Binding:
  
  Incorrect container elements or binding can cause the workflow not to start.
  Review the workflow container and binding in SWDD.
  
  
  
  
  Additional Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWDD – Workflow Builder (to view and edit workflows)
  SWO1 – Business Object Builder (to check business objects and events)
  SWI1 – Workflow Log (to analyze workflow errors)
  SWU3 – Automatic Workflow Customizing (to check workflow customizing)
  
  
  
  Related Notes:
  
  Sometimes, SAP Notes related to workflow activation or specific workflow templates may be relevant.
  Check SAP Support Portal for notes related to your workflow template or error.
  
  
  
  Common Scenarios:
  
  Custom workflows not transported to production.
  Standard workflows not activated after system upgrade.
  Incorrect workflow template ID hardcoded in custom programs.
  
  
  
  
  Summary:
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Details
  
  
  
  
  Error
  WZ161 No workflow definition
  
  
  Cause
  Workflow template not found or inactive
  
  
  Solution
  Activate workflow, verify ID, check assignment
  
  
  Key Transactions
  SWDD, SWO1, SWI1, SWU3
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the specific workflow ID or context where this error occurs, I can help you with more targeted advice.