How To Fix C1016 - Maintain format first

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: C1 - Characteristics maintenance messages

• Message number: 016

• Message text: Maintain format first

What causes this issue?

You have not yet entered a data type for the characteristic, so you
cannot enter any allowed values.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Enter a data type.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message C1016 - Maintain format first ?

  The SAP error message C1016, "Maintain format first," typically occurs in the context of maintaining or configuring certain settings in SAP, particularly when dealing with formats for output (like print layouts, forms, etc.) in modules such as SAPscript or Smart Forms.
  Cause:
  The error message C1016 indicates that the system requires you to define or maintain a format before you can proceed with the action you are trying to perform. This could happen in various scenarios, such as:
  
  When trying to create or modify a print layout or form without having a defined format.
  When attempting to execute a function that relies on a specific format that has not yet been set up.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the C1016 error, you should follow these steps:
  
  
  Access the Relevant Transaction:
  
  Depending on what you are trying to do, navigate to the appropriate transaction code (e.g., SMARTFORMS for Smart Forms or SE71 for SAPscript).
  
  
  
  Maintain the Format:
  
  If you are using Smart Forms, create or modify the Smart Form by defining the necessary format.
  If you are using SAPscript, ensure that the layout set is created and properly configured.
  
  
  
  Check for Existing Formats:
  
  Ensure that the format you are trying to use exists and is correctly maintained. You can check this in the relevant transaction.
  
  
  
  Save Changes:
  
  After maintaining the format, save your changes and try to execute the action again.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about how to maintain the format, refer to SAP documentation or help resources specific to the module you are working with.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SMARTFORMS: For creating and maintaining Smart Forms.
  SE71: For creating and maintaining SAPscript forms.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Documentation:
  
  Check SAP Notes for any specific issues related to your version of SAP that might provide additional context or solutions.
  
  
  
  User Permissions:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to create or modify formats in the system.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary changes, test the output to ensure that the format is applied correctly and that the error does not reoccur.
  
  
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis or technical team for further investigation.