How To Fix ATM_ATTRIBUTE016 - The description '&3' differs from the default description '&2' for &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ATM_ATTRIBUTE - Messages for Attributes

• Message number: 016

• Message text: The description '&3' differs from the default description '&2' for &1

What causes this issue?

User manually entered a description for the attribute for which a
default description exists.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

If you want to keep the default description for the attribute, you must
manually clear the entered description and choose <LS>Enter</>.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ATM_ATTRIBUTE016 - The description '&3' differs from the default description '&2' for &1 ?

  The SAP error message ATM_ATTRIBUTE016 indicates a discrepancy between the description of an attribute and its default description in the system. This error typically arises in the context of attribute management, particularly when dealing with master data or configuration settings in SAP.
  Cause:
  The error occurs when:
  
  The description of an attribute (e.g., a characteristic or property) that you are trying to use or modify does not match the default description defined in the system.
  This can happen if the attribute has been customized or if there are inconsistencies in the data entry.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the ATM_ATTRIBUTE016 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Check the Attribute Configuration:
  
  Go to the relevant configuration area in SAP where the attribute is defined.
  Verify the default description of the attribute and compare it with the description you are trying to use.
  
  
  
  Update the Description:
  
  If the description you are trying to use is correct and should be the new default, update the default description in the configuration to match the one you are trying to use.
  Conversely, if the default description is correct, update your entry to match the default description.
  
  
  
  Consistency Check:
  
  Ensure that there are no other inconsistencies in the attribute settings or related data that could be causing the error.
  Run any relevant consistency checks or validation tools provided by SAP to identify and rectify any additional issues.
  
  
  
  Transport Requests:
  
  If changes were made in a development environment, ensure that the changes are properly transported to the production environment.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance related to the attribute in question.
  
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE80 (Object Navigator), or SPRO (Customizing) to access the relevant configurations.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message for additional insights or patches that may address the issue.
  User Exits or BAdIs: If custom logic is involved, review any user exits or BAdIs that might be affecting the attribute descriptions.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the ATM_ATTRIBUTE016 error and ensure that the attribute descriptions are consistent within your SAP system.