How To Fix C1201 - Report program can only be started in batch mode

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: C1 - Characteristics maintenance messages

• Message number: 201

• Message text: Report program can only be started in batch mode

What causes this issue?

You have started program &V1& in dialog mode. However, this program can
only be used for batch processing.

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?

Start program &V1& again in batch mode.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message C1201 - Report program can only be started in batch mode ?

  The SAP error message C1201, which states "Report program can only be started in batch mode," typically occurs when you attempt to execute a report that is designed to run only in batch processing mode, rather than in dialog mode (interactive mode). This is common for reports that are expected to handle large volumes of data or perform extensive processing that is not suitable for real-time execution.
  Cause:
  
  Report Design: The report is specifically designed to run in batch mode. This is often the case for reports that process large datasets or require significant processing time.
  Execution Method: The report is being executed from a transaction or program that does not support batch processing.
  User Permissions: The user may not have the necessary permissions to execute the report in the required mode.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Run in Batch Mode: To resolve this error, you need to execute the report in batch mode. You can do this by:
  
  Using transaction SM37 to monitor batch jobs.
  Submitting the report as a background job using transaction SM36. Here, you can define the job name, the report to be executed, and the scheduling details.
  Using the Submit statement in ABAP code if you are developing or modifying the report.
  
  
  
  Check Report Documentation: Review the documentation or help files associated with the report to understand its requirements and how to execute it properly.
  
  
  User Permissions: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to execute the report in batch mode. This may involve checking roles and authorizations in transaction PFCG.
  
  
  Consult with Basis Team: If you are unsure about how to run the report in batch mode or if you encounter further issues, consult with your SAP Basis team for assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Batch Processing: In SAP, batch processing is used for executing long-running jobs without user interaction. This is particularly useful for reports that need to process large amounts of data.
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM36: Create and schedule background jobs.
  SM37: Monitor and manage background jobs.
  SE38: Execute ABAP programs (but may not work for batch-only reports).
  
  
  Performance Considerations: Running reports in batch mode can help improve system performance and reduce the load on the application server during peak hours.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the C1201 error and successfully execute the report in batch mode.