How to fix 'Unexpected error on server associating the workflow' workflow error in SharePoint Designer 2013 when trying to publish workflow.

Schmidt, Alasdair 5

When trying to publish a workflow in SharePoint Designer 2013 I receive a workflow error message that says "Unexpected error on server associating the workflow".

When the sharepoint site tries to execute the workflow there is an error for Failed to Start with System Account as the User ID. This error is immediately followed by Workflow was canceled by System Account.

I have followed the steps outlined here https://sharepoint-specialist.nu/sharepoint-designer-2013-error-unexpected-error-on-server-associating-the-workflow-235eaa801f7b including uninstalling and reinstalling SharePoint Designer 2013 without any success.

This workflow has worked without issue or changes made to it for months and then suddenly stopped working last Thursday 10/24/24.

Thanks in advance for any help or suggestions!!

AllenXu-MSFT 21,211 Reputation points Microsoft Vendor

2024-10-28T02:43:51.5333333+00:00

Hi @Schmidt, Alasdair,

Could you find any related information in your ULS logs to this error? Kindly share here if there are any clues for better troubleshooting. Thanks.
Schmidt, Alasdair 5 Reputation points

2024-10-28T18:45:02.53+00:00

Hi Allen, unfortunately I don't have access to the ULS logs. I have escalated this issue to our organizations IT group for help.
AllenXu-MSFT 21,211 Reputation points Microsoft Vendor

2024-10-31T01:40:51.7966667+00:00

@Schmidt, Alasdair,

Thanks for reply. You can share here the logs if you get from IT for better troubleshooting.

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How to fix 'Unexpected error on server associating the workflow' workflow error in SharePoint Designer 2013 when trying to publish workflow.

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