How To Fix AO027 - Variant number &1 will be deleted - enter a different number

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AO - Appropriation requests - Master data / Customizing

• Message number: 027

• Message text: Variant number &1 will be deleted - enter a different number

What causes this issue?

You entered variant number &V1&.
Variant number &V1& was already assigned, and was deleted in the same
online session. Therefore, it is not immediately available as a variant
number.

System Response

The system displays the variant number for you to change it.

How to fix this error?

Enter a variant number other than &V1& in this online session. Or
cancel the creation or copying of a new variant using the 'Cancel'
function F12.
If you want to use variant number &V1& later, you can use it after you
save, if variant &V1& has been physically deleted.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AO027 - Variant number &1 will be deleted - enter a different number ?

  The SAP error message AO027 indicates that you are trying to delete a variant with a specific number, but that variant cannot be deleted because it is either in use or does not exist. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information for this error:
  Cause:
  
  Variant in Use: The variant you are trying to delete is currently being used in a report or another process.
  Non-Existent Variant: The variant number you entered does not exist in the system.
  Authorization Issues: You may not have the necessary permissions to delete the variant.
  System Lock: The variant might be locked by another user or process.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Variant Usage:
  
  Verify if the variant is currently being used in any reports or processes. If it is, you will need to remove it from those usages before attempting to delete it.
  
  
  
  Verify Variant Number:
  
  Double-check the variant number you are trying to delete. Ensure that it is correct and exists in the system.
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to delete variants. You may need to contact your system administrator to verify your permissions.
  
  
  
  Unlock the Variant:
  
  If the variant is locked, you may need to wait until it is released or contact the user who has it locked to request an unlock.
  
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes:
  
  Use transaction codes like SE38 or SA38 to check the variants associated with specific programs. You can also use SE93 to check for any related authorization objects.
  
  
  
  Alternative Deletion Method:
  
  If the standard deletion method does not work, consider using a different approach, such as using a program or report designed to manage variants.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for more details on managing variants and error messages.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes for variant management, such as SE38 (ABAP Editor) and SE93 (Transaction Codes).
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant for further assistance.