How To Fix BUP016 - Cannot make multiple changes to the same key

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BUP - Business Partner Messages

• Message number: 016

• Message text: Cannot make multiple changes to the same key

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.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BUP016 - Cannot make multiple changes to the same key ?

  The SAP error message BUP016: "Cannot make multiple changes to the same key" typically occurs when there are attempts to modify the same business partner (BP) record or related data in a way that conflicts with the system's data integrity rules. This can happen in various scenarios, such as during mass changes, data uploads, or when multiple users are trying to edit the same record simultaneously.
  Causes:
  
  Concurrent Modifications: Multiple users or processes are trying to change the same business partner record at the same time.
  Batch Processing: If you are using batch input or mass changes, the system may detect that the same key is being processed multiple times.
  Data Upload Issues: When uploading data (e.g., via LSMW or other tools), if the same key is included multiple times in the upload file, it can trigger this error.
  Inconsistent Data: If there are inconsistencies in the data being processed, such as duplicate entries or conflicting changes, this error may arise.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check for Concurrent Users: Ensure that no other users are editing the same business partner record at the same time. You can check for locks on the record using transaction codes like SM12 (to view lock entries).
  Review Batch Input: If you are using batch input or mass changes, ensure that the same business partner is not being processed multiple times in the same session. Modify your input data to avoid duplicates.
  Data Upload Validation: If you are uploading data, validate your input file to ensure that each business partner key is unique and not repeated.
  Use Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like BP (Business Partner) to manually check and edit the records if necessary, ensuring that you are not trying to make conflicting changes.
  Error Handling in Programs: If you are developing custom programs or scripts, implement error handling to catch this error and manage it appropriately, such as skipping duplicates or queuing changes for later processing.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as BP (Business Partner), SM12 (Lock Entries), and SE38 (ABAP Program Execution) for debugging.
  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 problems.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation on business partner management and data integrity rules to understand how to structure your data changes properly.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the BUP016 error and ensure smooth processing of business partner data in SAP.