How To Fix ATM_ATTRIBUTE006 - The external name for responsibility definition &1 already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ATM_ATTRIBUTE - Messages for Attributes

• Message number: 006

• Message text: The external name for responsibility definition &1 already exists

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ATM_ATTRIBUTE006 - The external name for responsibility definition &1 already exists ?

  The SAP error message ATM_ATTRIBUTE006 indicates that there is an attempt to create or modify a responsibility definition in the system, but the external name you are trying to use already exists. This typically occurs in the context of managing responsibilities in the SAP system, particularly in the area of authorization management or role management.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by trying to create a new responsibility definition with an external name that is already in use by another responsibility definition. Each responsibility definition must have a unique external name to avoid conflicts in the system.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Responsibility Definitions:
  
  Use transaction codes like PFCG (Profile Generator) or SU01 (User Maintenance) to check existing responsibility definitions.
  Look for the external name that you are trying to use and confirm that it is indeed already in use.
  
  
  
  Choose a Different Name:
  
  If the external name is already taken, you will need to select a different, unique name for your new responsibility definition.
  
  
  
  Modify Existing Definition:
  
  If the existing responsibility definition is no longer needed, you can consider modifying or deleting it, but ensure that this does not impact any users or roles that rely on it.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review any relevant documentation or guidelines for naming conventions in your organization to ensure compliance.
  
  
  
  Check for Transport Requests:
  
  If you are working in a development environment, ensure that there are no pending transport requests that might be causing conflicts.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like PFCG for role management and SUIM for user information systems, which can help you manage and audit roles and responsibilities.
  Authorization Management: Understanding the broader context of authorization management in SAP can help you avoid similar issues in the future.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or additional guidance related to this error message.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the ATM_ATTRIBUTE006 error and successfully create or modify your responsibility definition.