How To Fix APPL_MM_PUR_PO018 - You are not authorized to update the item data of the purchase order

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: APPL_MM_PUR_PO - Message Class for Purchase Order

• Message number: 018

• Message text: You are not authorized to update the item data of the purchase order

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message APPL_MM_PUR_PO018 - You are not authorized to update the item data of the purchase order ?

  The SAP error message APPL_MM_PUR_PO018 indicates that a user is not authorized to update the item data of a purchase order. This error typically arises in the Materials Management (MM) module when a user attempts to modify a purchase order but lacks the necessary permissions.
  Cause:
  
  Authorization Issues: The most common cause of this error is that the user does not have the required authorization roles or permissions to make changes to the purchase order item data.
  Role Configuration: The roles assigned to the user may not include the necessary authorizations for the specific transaction or object.
  Document Status: The purchase order may be in a status that does not allow changes (e.g., if it has been fully delivered or invoiced).
  Field-Level Security: Certain fields may have additional restrictions that prevent updates based on user roles.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check User Authorizations:
  
  Use transaction code SU53 immediately after encountering the error to check the authorization check that failed. This will provide insight into which specific authorization object is missing.
  Review the user's roles and authorizations in transaction code PFCG to ensure they have the necessary permissions for the purchase order item data.
  
  
  
  Role Adjustment:
  
  If the user lacks the necessary authorizations, work with your SAP security team to adjust the roles or create a new role that includes the required authorizations for updating purchase orders.
  
  
  
  Document Status Review:
  
  Verify the status of the purchase order. If it is in a status that does not allow changes, you may need to change the status or create a new purchase order.
  
  
  
  Field-Level Security:
  
  Check if there are any field-level security settings that restrict access to specific fields in the purchase order. Adjust these settings if necessary.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or your organization's internal guidelines for managing authorizations and roles.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Authorization Objects: Common authorization objects related to purchase orders include:
  
  M_BEST_BSA: Purchase Order: Authorization for Purchase Order
  M_BEST_EKO: Purchase Order: Authorization for Purchasing Group
  M_BEST_VKO: Purchase Order: Authorization for Vendor
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SU53: Display Authorization Check
  PFCG: Role Maintenance
  ME22N: Change Purchase Order (for testing after authorization adjustments)
  
  
  
  If the issue persists after checking and adjusting authorizations, it may be necessary to consult with your SAP Basis or security team for further investigation.