How To Fix DPR_BAPI701 - Approval already exists and cannot be created again

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DPR_BAPI - Messages for BAPIs in Project Management

• Message number: 701

• Message text: Approval already exists and cannot be created again

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DPR_BAPI701 - Approval already exists and cannot be created again ?

  The SAP error message DPR_BAPI701: Approval already exists and cannot be created again typically occurs in the context of project management within SAP, particularly when dealing with project approvals in the Project System (PS) or Project Management (PM) modules. This error indicates that an attempt is being made to create an approval for a project or project element that already has an existing approval.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Approval Attempt: The most common cause of this error is that there is already an approval record for the project or project element you are trying to approve. SAP does not allow multiple approvals for the same entity.
  Incorrect Data Entry: Sometimes, the error can arise from incorrect data entry or configuration issues where the system is not recognizing the existing approval correctly.
  Workflow Issues: If there are issues with the workflow or approval process, it may lead to this error being triggered.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Existing Approvals: Before attempting to create a new approval, check if there is already an existing approval for the project or project element. You can do this by navigating to the relevant project in SAP and reviewing the approval status.
  Use Existing Approval: If an approval already exists, you may need to use that approval instead of trying to create a new one. If changes are needed, consider modifying the existing approval if the system allows it.
  Delete or Modify Existing Approval: If the existing approval is no longer valid or needs to be replaced, you may need to delete or modify it, depending on your organization's policies and the system's capabilities.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help files related to project approvals to ensure you are following the correct procedures.
  Contact SAP Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with SAP support for further assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CJ20N (Project Builder) or CJ02 (Change Project) to manage project approvals.
  Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to create or modify approvals in the system.
  Custom Development: If your organization has custom developments or enhancements related to project approvals, check if they might be affecting the standard behavior of the system.
  SAP Notes: Look for relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and take appropriate action to resolve it.