How To Fix DMC_GENERAL196 - Target value cannot be initial

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DMC_GENERAL - MWB: General Messages

• Message number: 196

• Message text: Target value cannot be initial

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DMC_GENERAL196 - Target value cannot be initial ?

  The SAP error message DMC_GENERAL196 with the description "Target value cannot be initial" typically occurs in the context of SAP Data Management or SAP Data Intelligence, particularly when working with data transformations or data flows. This error indicates that a target value that is expected to be populated is currently empty or not initialized.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Target Value: The most common cause of this error is that a required target value in a data transformation or mapping is not set or is left blank.
  Incorrect Mapping: There may be an issue with how the source and target fields are mapped, leading to a situation where the target field is not receiving a value.
  Data Type Mismatch: If the data type of the source value does not match the expected data type of the target field, it may lead to the target value being uninitialized.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration issues in the data flow or transformation logic that prevent the target value from being populated.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Data Mapping: Review the mapping between the source and target fields to ensure that all required fields are correctly mapped and that there are no missing values.
  Initialize Target Values: Ensure that the target values are initialized properly before the transformation or data flow is executed. This may involve setting default values or ensuring that the source data contains valid entries.
  Validate Data Types: Check the data types of both the source and target fields to ensure they are compatible. If there is a mismatch, you may need to convert the data type appropriately.
  Review Transformation Logic: If you are using any transformation logic (e.g., formulas, conditions), ensure that they are correctly implemented and that they do not inadvertently lead to uninitialized target values.
  Debugging: Use debugging tools or logs to trace the data flow and identify where the target value is not being set. This can help pinpoint the exact location of the issue.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for Data Management or Data Intelligence for detailed information on data flows, transformations, and error handling.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and to find potential solutions or workarounds.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance on resolving it.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the DMC_GENERAL196 error and implement a solution to resolve it.