How To Fix AO187 - Variant &1 cannot be deleted - &2 status is active

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 187

• Message text: Variant &1 cannot be deleted - &2 status is active

What causes this issue?

You want to delete variant &V1&. According to the status '&V2&' of the
variant, deletion is not allowed.

System Response

The system does not allow deletion of variant &V1&.

How to fix this error?

The variant cannot be deleted.
If you want to delete variante &V1&, see if you can change the status
of the variant. You can delete the variant if it has 'created' or
'rejected' status.
You cannot delete variants in which a master data lock has been set.
You first have to remove the master data lock to be able to delete
them.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AO187 - Variant &1 cannot be deleted - &2 status is active ?

  The SAP error message AO187 indicates that a variant (in this case, identified by &1) cannot be deleted because it is currently in an active status (indicated by &2). This typically occurs in the context of SAP's Asset Accounting module, where variants are used for various configurations and settings.
  Cause:
  
  Active Status: The variant you are trying to delete is currently active, meaning it is being used in some capacity within the system. This could be due to it being assigned to a transaction, report, or configuration that is currently in use.
  Dependencies: There may be dependencies or links to other objects or processes that prevent the deletion of the variant.
  User Permissions: In some cases, user permissions may restrict the ability to delete certain objects, especially if they are in use.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Active Usage: Before attempting to delete the variant, check if it is currently being used in any transactions or configurations. You can do this by reviewing the settings or reports associated with the variant.
  Deactivate the Variant: If possible, deactivate the variant first. This may involve changing its status or removing it from any active processes.
  Remove Dependencies: Ensure that there are no dependencies or links to other objects that would prevent deletion. This may involve unlinking the variant from reports or configurations.
  User Permissions: Verify that you have the necessary permissions to delete the variant. If not, consult with your SAP administrator to gain the required access.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific instructions related to the variant you are working with.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use specific transaction codes to manage variants, such as AO01 (Create Asset) or AO02 (Change Asset).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or additional guidance related to the AO187 error message.
  Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal IT team for further assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the AO187 error and successfully delete the variant if it is no longer needed.