Error Reference

Flow action failed: action returned an error

Flow action failed: action returned an error

Where this appears

This error appears in Flow Designer execution logs when a flow action encounters an exception during runtime. It is visible in the Flow Context and Execution Details of the flow instance, and may also appear in the System Log under Application Logs.

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Overview
Tasks
CMDB
API
Metrics
Monitor
Internals
Instance:sourdoughdev·Version:Yokohama
Instance StateONLINE
System StatusFully Operational
Session Timeout90 minutes
Logged-In Sessions2 (20 active)
Build Nameyokohama-12-18-2024_p1
IP Address10.159.128.43
Instance HealthHealth Score: 90%
🔥 5dSourdough (Chrome Plugin)Dark Mode

Cause

Missing or invalid input values required by the action, such as empty mandatory fields or incorrectly mapped variables from previous flow steps. (high likelihood)

API connection failures in spoke actions, including authentication issues, network timeouts, or invalid credentials for external system integrations. (high likelihood)

Script errors in inline script actions, including syntax errors, runtime exceptions, or references to undefined variables or functions. (medium likelihood)

Permission or ACL restrictions preventing the flow from accessing required tables, fields, or system resources during action execution. (medium likelihood)

External system unavailability or response errors when the action attempts to communicate with third-party services or databases. (low likelihood)

Fix

Step 1: Navigate to Flow Designer and open the failed flow, then click on Execution Details to view the specific flow instance that failed.

Step 2: Identify the specific action that failed by looking for the red error indicator in the execution timeline and click on it to view detailed error information.

Step 3: Check the System Log at System Diagnostics > Logs > Application Logs and filter by the flow execution time to find detailed error messages and stack traces.

Step 4: Verify all required input values are properly mapped and not empty by examining the action's input tab and checking data pill mappings from previous steps.

Step 5: If the action is a spoke action, test the connection credentials and verify the target system is accessible by running a simple test operation.

Step 6: For script actions, review the script syntax and test it in a background script or fix script to identify and resolve any coding errors.

Step 7: Check user permissions and ACLs for the flow trigger user to ensure access to all required tables and fields used by the failing action.

Step 8: Test the flow with known good data by creating a manual trigger or using the Test button in Flow Designer to validate the fix.

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