How To Fix BOM261 - New variant does not exist

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BOM - BOMs (2)

• Message number: 261

• Message text: New variant does not exist

What causes this issue?

You want to create a variant for a bill of material. However, you
cannot do so for one of the following reasons:
A <DS:GLOS.3526C453AFAB52B9E10000009B38F974>multiple BOM</> already
exists with this BOM number. You can only create a variant for a
material whose BOM only has one
<DS:GLOS.3526C3FAAFAB52B9E10000009B38F974>alternative</> or which is
already a <DS:GLOS.3526C4D3AFAB52B9E10000009B38F974>variant BOM</>.
You cannot create any variants in your SAP system because variant BOMs
have been set to inactive in Customizing.

System Response

The system cannot create a variant.

How to fix this error?

Delete the BOM number if necessary.

Procedure for System Administrators

Check whether variants are allowed in your SAP system. To do so, call
up Customizing for bills of materials, and choose the activity
<LS>Control Data for BOMs -> Set Modification Parameters</>. If the
<LS><DS:DE.CS_VARFL>Variant BOM is inactive</></> parameter is
selected, you cannot create any variants in your system.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BOM261 - New variant does not exist ?

  The SAP error message BOM261 ("New variant does not exist") typically occurs when you are trying to create or modify a Bill of Materials (BOM) in SAP, and the system cannot find the specified variant for the material. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when you are working with configurable materials or when you are trying to create a BOM for a specific variant that has not been defined in the system.
  Causes:
  
  Missing Variant: The variant you are trying to use does not exist in the system. This could be due to a typo in the variant name or the variant not being created yet.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration settings for the material may not be set up correctly, leading to the system not recognizing the variant.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary permissions to access or create the specified variant.
  Data Inconsistencies: There may be inconsistencies in the master data that prevent the system from recognizing the variant.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Variant Existence: Verify that the variant you are trying to use actually exists in the system. You can do this by navigating to the relevant transaction (e.g., CS03 for displaying BOMs) and checking the available variants for the material.
  Create the Variant: If the variant does not exist, you may need to create it. This can typically be done in the configuration settings for the material.
  Review Configuration Settings: Ensure that the configuration settings for the material are correct. This includes checking the configuration profile and ensuring that all necessary characteristics and values are defined.
  Check Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to access and create the variant. You may need to contact your SAP security team if you suspect authorization issues.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on handling BOMs and variants, as there may be additional steps or considerations based on your specific SAP version or configuration.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CS01 (Create BOM), CS02 (Change BOM), and CS03 (Display BOM).
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to BOM management and variant configuration that may provide additional insights or fixes for known issues.
  Training and Documentation: Consider reviewing SAP training materials or documentation related to BOMs and variant configuration to better understand the processes involved.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in BOM and variant configuration.