PromptSet with date-time input field using an Automic script variable as default value displays misleading invalid format warning

Products

• CA Automic Workload Automation - Automation Engine

Issue/Introduction

Error Message :
In a PromptSet, the date field 'Start Date' has an invalid format in 'Default Value' and will be reset to the current date/time.

Different behavior is seen between the Java UI and the Automic Web Interface (AWI).  When the below steps are followed in the Java UI everything is fine and there are no errors.  However, doing the same thing using the AWI causes the above warning message.

1. In a PromptSet a date/time field is used which is pre-filled with an Automic script variable, &NOW#, which is the Automic action used to start an application deployment Workflow.
2. Parent Workflow is started.
3. The Workflow monitor is opened and the task with the PromptSet selected.

Using the AWI, the above warning message is displayed as shown below.

<Please see attached file for image>

The same behavior is seen if the workflow is modified and an attempt is made to set the task properties.

Environment

OS Version: N/A

Cause

Cause type:
Defect
Root Cause: The message that is displayed to the user when using a variable that contains an invalid Time/Date format is misleading.

Resolution

Update to a fix version listed below or a newer version if available.

When using a variable for a PromptSet control with the wrong Time/Date format, the error message now clearly indicates where the problem lies and which date format is expected.

Fix Status: Released

Fix Version(s):
Automation Engine 12.1.0 - Available
Automation Engine 12.0.2 - Available

Additional Information

Workaround :
Always use the correct time format HH-MM-SS with the dashes.