How To Fix BC018 - Specify a substitute authorization

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BC - Scheduler (calendar)

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Specify a substitute authorization

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BC018 - Specify a substitute authorization ?

  The SAP error message BC018 ("Specify a substitute authorization") typically occurs when a user attempts to perform an action that requires a specific authorization, but that authorization is not available or not properly assigned. This error is often related to the authorization checks in SAP, particularly in the context of user roles and permissions.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Authorizations: The user does not have the necessary authorizations to perform the action they are trying to execute.
  Substitute Authorization Not Defined: The system requires a substitute authorization to be specified, but it has not been set up.
  Role Assignment Issues: The user may not have the correct roles assigned that include the necessary authorizations.
  Profile Issues: The user profile may not include the required authorizations for the transaction or action being attempted.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check User Authorizations:
  
  Use transaction code SU53 immediately after the error occurs to see which authorization check failed. This will provide insight into what specific authorization is missing.
  Review the user’s roles and profiles using transaction code SU01 (User Maintenance) to ensure that the necessary roles are assigned.
  
  
  
  Define Substitute Authorizations:
  
  If the action requires a substitute authorization, ensure that it is defined in the system. This can typically be done in the user’s profile or through the relevant authorization objects.
  
  
  
  Role Adjustment:
  
  If the user lacks the necessary roles, work with your SAP security team to assign the appropriate roles that include the required authorizations.
  
  
  
  Authorization Object Check:
  
  Identify the specific authorization object that is causing the issue and ensure that the user has the necessary permissions for that object.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP Basis or Security team for guidance on how to properly set up authorizations and roles.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SU01: User Maintenance
  SU53: Display Authorization Check
  PFCG: Role Maintenance (to manage roles and authorizations)
  
  
  
  Authorization Objects: Familiarize yourself with the relevant authorization objects that may be involved in the transaction or action you are trying to perform.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues related to authorization errors.
  
  
  Security Team: If you are not authorized to make changes to user roles or authorizations, contact your SAP security team for assistance.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the BC018 error and implement the necessary solutions to resolve it.