How To Fix EI888 - Error when preparing list processing

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EI - Foreign Trade: Gen. Output

• Message number: 888

• Message text: Error when preparing list processing

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EI888 - Error when preparing list processing ?

  The SAP error message EI888, which indicates "Error when preparing list processing," typically arises during the execution of a report or transaction that involves list processing, such as generating a report or displaying a list of data. This error can be caused by various factors, including:
  Causes:
  
  Data Issues: There may be inconsistencies or issues with the underlying data that the report is trying to process.
  Performance Problems: The system may be experiencing performance issues, leading to timeouts or failures in processing large datasets.
  Configuration Errors: Incorrect configuration settings in the report or transaction can lead to this error.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access certain data or execute the report.
  Program Errors: There could be bugs or errors in the ABAP code of the report or transaction being executed.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Data Integrity: Verify the data being processed for any inconsistencies or errors. This may involve checking for missing or corrupted records.
  Optimize Performance: If the report is processing a large amount of data, consider optimizing the query or report parameters to limit the dataset.
  Review Configuration: Ensure that all configuration settings related to the report or transaction are correct and aligned with the business requirements.
  Check Authorizations: Confirm that the user executing the report has the necessary authorizations to access the data and execute the transaction.
  Debugging: If you have access to the ABAP code, you can debug the program to identify the exact point of failure and understand the underlying issue.
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes or patches that may address this specific error.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context of the error, you may be using specific transaction codes (e.g., SE38 for executing reports, SE80 for development).
  SAP Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance, providing them with detailed information about the error, including any relevant logs or screenshots.
  System Logs: Review system logs (transaction SM21) for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the EI888 error in SAP.