How To Fix DDLS164 - Names in selection list are not unique: &-& appears more than once

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DDLS - For DDL source handling

• Message number: 164

• Message text: Names in selection list are not unique: &-& appears more than once

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DDLS164 - Names in selection list are not unique: &-& appears more than once ?

  The SAP error message DDLS164 indicates that there are duplicate names in a selection list, which means that the same name appears more than once in the context of a selection screen or a list of options. This can occur in various scenarios, such as when defining a selection screen for a report or when working with data dictionary objects.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Entries: The most common cause of this error is that there are duplicate entries in the selection list. This can happen if the same field or value is included multiple times in the selection criteria.
  Incorrect Data Dictionary Definitions: If the data dictionary objects (like tables or views) are defined incorrectly, it may lead to duplicate names being generated.
  Program Logic: The logic in the ABAP program may inadvertently create duplicates when populating selection options.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Selection Screen Definition: Review the selection screen definition in your ABAP program. Ensure that each field or option is defined uniquely. If you find duplicates, remove or rename them.
  Example:
  SELECT-OPTIONS: s_field FOR your_table-field.
  
  
  Review Data Dictionary Objects: If the error is related to data dictionary objects, check the definitions of the tables or views involved. Ensure that there are no duplicate field names or aliases.
  
  
  Debugging: If the issue is not immediately apparent, use debugging tools to trace the program execution and identify where the duplicates are being introduced.
  
  
  Use Unique Aliases: If you are using joins or multiple tables in a SELECT statement, ensure that you are using unique aliases for each field to avoid conflicts.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the definitions or the structure of your program, refer to SAP documentation or consult with a colleague who has experience with the specific module or functionality.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. Sometimes, there may be specific fixes or recommendations provided by SAP.
  ABAP Development Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with best practices in ABAP development to avoid such issues in the future.
  Community Forums: Consider searching or posting in SAP community forums or platforms like SAP Community, Stack Overflow, or other developer forums for additional insights and solutions from other developers who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DDLS164 error and ensure that your selection lists are unique.