How To Fix DH808 - Selection with search help was not unique

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DH - DD: Messages for search helps

• Message number: 808

• Message text: Selection with search help was not unique

What causes this issue?

In batch input, the entry for a field should be indirectly entered with
a <DS:TX.DDDOK_SHLP_SHORTCUT>short cut</>.
The selection resulted in more than one value. In this case, the field
is not assigned because a unique selection is not possible.

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?

Execute the batch input session interactively and change the short cut
so that a unique entry is specified.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DH808 - Selection with search help was not unique ?

  The SAP error message DH808, which states "Selection with search help was not unique," typically occurs when a user attempts to use a search help (F4 help) in a selection screen, and the search help returns multiple entries that match the criteria provided. This can lead to ambiguity, as the system cannot determine which entry the user intends to select.
  Cause:
  
  Multiple Matches: The primary cause of this error is that the search help is returning multiple records that match the input criteria. This can happen if the input is too broad or if there are many records in the database that meet the search criteria.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues with the configuration of the search help itself, such as incorrect joins or filters that do not narrow down the results sufficiently.
  Data Issues: The underlying data may have duplicates or similar entries that cause the search help to return multiple results.
  
  Solution:
  
  Refine Input Criteria: The simplest solution is to refine the input criteria to be more specific. This can help reduce the number of matches returned by the search help.
  Check Search Help Configuration: If you have access to the configuration, check the search help definition in transaction SE11 or SE80. Ensure that the search help is set up correctly and that any joins or filters are appropriate for the data.
  Review Data: Investigate the underlying data to see if there are duplicates or similar entries that could be causing the issue. If necessary, clean up the data to ensure that it is unique.
  Use a Different Search Help: If available, consider using a different search help that may provide more specific results.
  Contact Support: If the issue persists and you cannot resolve it, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting the SAP community for further assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You can use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) and SE80 (Object Navigator) to check the search help configuration.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to search helps and selection screens for best practices and troubleshooting tips.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the DH808 error and improve the usability of the search help in your SAP environment.