how to execute background task as a user rather than wf-batch?

Hi Folks,

We have a situation whereby wf-batch used to exeute a background task which was assigned a z method in a BO. This method simulated a pre-hire in pa40 and so executes hr_maintain_masterdata.

This process used to work fine, but something has changed in the system and the FM now returns an error when wf-batch tries to execute (start date before initial entry date). It should be noted that when a user executes this method, the pre-hire is completed without incident.

So looking on this site, I found a blog where nabheet madan states:

Change user name of WF-BATCH which is posting a document in background to the user who lastly approved the release. .In those cases we can bind back the actual agent who executed the previous work item and change the background task to dialog task with advance with dialog set. The workflow system will use the correct user to execute the following step without interrupting it .

Any ideas on how to achieve this? I have tried passing wf-initiator as the actual agent and have unticked background processing on the task but in swia it is hanging as no agent is assigned.

How can I get around this issue?

Thanks in advance,

Liz.