Resolving the ‘Flow sys_id:n Cannot Be Found’ Error in ServiceNow Flow Designer

Encountering the error message “Your flow cannot be found. Flow sys_id:n“ in ServiceNow Flow Designer can be frustrating. This issue typically arises due to specific scenarios, including corrupted actions or missing subflows in update sets. Below, we break down the causes and provide effective resolutions to ensure smooth operation within ServiceNow.

Common Causes of the Error

1. “Get Catalog Variables” Action Causing Flow Corruption

Issue: A known bug in Flow Designer occurs when the following sequence is performed:

• Adding a “Get Catalog Variables” action.

• Saving the flow.

• Adding an “Assign” action afterward.

This sequence can corrupt the flow, leading to the “Flow sys_id:n cannot be found” error.

2. Missing Subflows in Update Sets

Issue: If a main flow references a subflow that isn’t included in the update set, moving the update set to another instance results in the system failing to locate the subflow’s sys_id. Consequently, the error appears when accessing or executing the main flow.

How to Resolve the Error

1. Fixing the “Get Catalog Variables” Action Issue

• Avoid the Problematic Sequence: When using the “Get Catalog Variables” action, refrain from immediately saving the flow before adding an “Assign” action.

• Test Before Deployment: If the action sequence is necessary, conduct thorough testing to identify any corruption early.

2. Ensuring Subflows Are Included in Update Sets

• Manually Add Dependencies: When creating update sets, ensure all referenced subflows are included.

• Verify Post-Migration: After moving an update set to a new instance, check that all necessary components are present and properly referenced.

Best Practices for Preventing Flow Designer Errors

✅ Regular Backups: Maintain backups of flows and their components to prevent data loss in case of corruption.

✅ Thorough Testing: Before deploying or migrating flows, test their execution to ensure they work correctly in the target instance.

✅ Stay Updated: Regularly check for ServiceNow updates and patches that may resolve known issues in Flow Designer.

By implementing these best practices and resolution steps, you can minimize the risk of encountering the “Flow sys_id:n cannot be found” error and maintain a seamless workflow in ServiceNow Flow Designer.

Need Help?

If you need assistance troubleshooting Flow Designer issues, resolving update set dependencies, or optimizing your ServiceNow workflows, our expert team is here to help! Contact us today to ensure smooth operations and enhance system reliability.