How To Fix BT385 - Predecessor job is not unique

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BT - Background processing messages

• Message number: 385

• Message text: Predecessor job is not unique

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BT385 - Predecessor job is not unique ?

  The SAP error message BT385 ("Predecessor job is not unique") typically occurs in the context of job scheduling within the SAP system, particularly when dealing with background jobs. This error indicates that the system has found multiple predecessor jobs that match the criteria specified for a job dependency, leading to ambiguity in job execution order.
  Cause:
  
  
  Non-Unique Predecessor Jobs: The error arises when there are multiple jobs that meet the criteria set for a predecessor job. This can happen if:
  
  There are multiple jobs scheduled with the same name or criteria.
  The job selection criteria (like job name, user, or other parameters) are too broad, resulting in multiple matches.
  
  
  
  Job Variants: If you are using job variants, there might be multiple variants that match the predecessor job criteria.
  
  
  Job Deletion or Modification: If a job was deleted or modified after the dependency was set, it might lead to inconsistencies.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Job Definitions: Review the job definitions and ensure that the predecessor job is uniquely identifiable. You can do this by:
  
  Going to transaction code SM37 (Job Monitoring) and checking for jobs with similar names or criteria.
  Ensuring that the job name and other parameters are specific enough to avoid ambiguity.
  
  
  
  Modify Job Dependencies: If you find multiple jobs that could be considered predecessors, you may need to:
  
  Adjust the job dependency settings to point to a specific job.
  Remove or modify the conflicting jobs to ensure that only one job meets the predecessor criteria.
  
  
  
  Use Job Variants Wisely: If you are using job variants, ensure that they are uniquely defined and do not overlap in a way that could cause confusion.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for more detailed guidance on job scheduling and dependencies.
  
  
  Testing: After making changes, test the job scheduling again to ensure that the error does not recur.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  SM37: Job Monitoring
  SM36: Define Background Job
  SM21: System Log (to check for any related system messages)
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to job scheduling and dependencies.
  
  
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the BT385 error and ensure that your job scheduling runs smoothly.