How To Fix GD057 - Enter a variant to start the transfer

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GD - EDT: External data transfer

• Message number: 057

• Message text: Enter a variant to start the transfer

What causes this issue?

In file splitting, jobs are created for external data transfers.
Various entry parameters are required for these. The variant for
external data transfer must be created before file splitting begins and
must then be specified.

System Response

The desired function is not executed.

How to fix this error?

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

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 GD057 - Enter a variant to start the transfer ?

  The SAP error message GD057 ("Enter a variant to start the transfer") typically occurs when you are trying to execute a report or transaction that requires a variant for data selection, but no variant has been specified. Variants in SAP are used to save specific settings for reports or transactions, allowing users to execute them with predefined parameters.
  Cause:
  
  No Variant Specified: The most common cause of this error is that the user has not selected or entered a variant when attempting to execute a report or transaction that requires one.
  Incorrect Transaction Code: Sometimes, the transaction code being used may not be the correct one for the intended report or may not support the variant functionality.
  User Authorization: In some cases, the user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the variants.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Select or Create a Variant:
  
  When prompted with the error, check if there is an option to select a variant from a dropdown list. If there are no existing variants, you may need to create one.
  To create a variant, navigate to the report or transaction, enter the required selection criteria, and then save it as a variant by clicking on the "Save" button (often represented by a disk icon) and providing a name for the variant.
  
  
  
  Check Transaction Code:
  
  Ensure that you are using the correct transaction code that supports variants. If you are unsure, consult your SAP documentation or system administrator.
  
  
  
  User Authorization:
  
  If you suspect that authorization might be an issue, contact your SAP security administrator to ensure that you have the necessary permissions to access and use variants.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to the SAP Help documentation or user manuals for the specific report or transaction you are trying to execute. This can provide additional context on how to use variants effectively.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Creating Variants: Variants can be created for various reports and transactions in SAP. The process usually involves entering the selection criteria and saving it with a unique name.
  Using Variants: Once a variant is created, it can be reused by selecting it from the variant selection screen when executing the report or transaction.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific issues related to the report or transaction you are using, as there may be known bugs or additional guidance provided by SAP.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be helpful to consult with your SAP support team or refer to SAP community forums for further assistance.