How To Fix 69885 - The indicator "Alternative field selection" is not set

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 69 - Central Functions of Financial Asset Management

• Message number: 885

• Message text: The indicator "Alternative field selection" is not set

What causes this issue?

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

System Response

How to fix this error?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 69885 - The indicator "Alternative field selection" is not set ?

  The SAP error message 69885, which states "The indicator 'Alternative field selection' is not set," typically occurs in the context of data extraction or reporting, particularly when using the SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP ERP systems. This error indicates that the system is expecting an alternative field selection to be defined, but it has not been set.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Configuration: The error often arises when the configuration for the data extraction or reporting is incomplete. Specifically, the "Alternative field selection" indicator has not been activated in the relevant settings.
  Data Source Issues: If you are trying to extract data from a data source that requires alternative field selection, and it has not been defined, this error will occur.
  User Authorization: Sometimes, the user may not have the necessary authorizations to access or modify the settings related to alternative field selection.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Navigate to the relevant data source or InfoObject in the SAP BW or ERP system.
  Ensure that the "Alternative field selection" indicator is activated. This can usually be found in the settings or properties of the data source or InfoObject.
  If you are using a custom data source, ensure that the necessary fields are defined and that the alternative field selection is properly configured.
  
  
  
  Adjust Data Extraction Settings:
  
  If you are using a specific extraction method (like a Data Transfer Process), check the settings to ensure that alternative field selection is enabled.
  Review the extraction logic to ensure that it aligns with the requirements of the data source.
  
  
  
  User Authorization:
  
  Verify that the user encountering the error has the necessary authorizations to access and modify the relevant settings. If not, consult with your SAP security team to obtain the required permissions.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on configuring alternative field selection for your version of SAP.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary changes, test the data extraction or reporting process again to ensure that the error has been resolved.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  SAP Support: If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP Support for further assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error message 69885 and successfully configure the alternative field selection in your SAP environment.