How To Fix BS_SOA_ERR_CAT016 - Enter a message number or <*> as wildcard

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BS_SOA_ERR_CAT - Messages for Error Categorizer

• Message number: 016

• Message text: Enter a message number or <*> as wildcard

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BS_SOA_ERR_CAT016 - Enter a message number or <*> as wildcard ?

  The SAP error message BS_SOA_ERR_CAT016 typically indicates that a required input for a message number is missing or incorrectly formatted. This error often occurs in the context of using the SAP Business Workflow or when dealing with service-oriented architecture (SOA) scenarios, where specific message numbers are expected for processing.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Input: The error arises when the system expects a message number to be provided, but it is either missing or not entered correctly.
  Incorrect Format: If the input is provided but does not conform to the expected format (e.g., not a valid message number), the system will throw this error.
  Wildcard Usage: The error message suggests using a wildcard (*) if you want to search for multiple message numbers, but if the input is not recognized, it will still result in an error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Provide a Valid Message Number: Ensure that you enter a valid message number that exists in the system. Check the documentation or the relevant transaction to find the correct message number.
  Use Wildcard Correctly: If you intend to use a wildcard to search for multiple messages, ensure you enter * correctly. For example, entering * should allow the system to return all relevant messages.
  Check Input Fields: Make sure that you are entering the message number in the correct field and that there are no leading or trailing spaces.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for the specific transaction or function you are using to understand the expected input format.
  System Configuration: If the issue persists, it may be worth checking if there are any configuration settings or authorizations that might be affecting the input.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common errors.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with the relevant transaction codes that may be involved in the process where this error occurs.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  If the problem continues after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.