Hi Joel,
for the error you can search SAP Notes or raise an OSS. Component is CA-EPT-PRO.
For changing the description of the activity please find the following customizing:
Activity
PLM Web User Interface - Objects in PLM Web UI - Process Route - Define Activities for GOS Objects for Process Routes
Define GOS object (here you can change the description)
Cross-Application Components - General Application Functions - Records and Case Management – Case - Process Route - Define Activities and Activity Functions for Process Route
Best regards
Tamas