How To Fix H1031 - Please specify an external number or an external name

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: H1 - Messages Used in HR Funds and Position Management

• Message number: 031

• Message text: Please specify an external number or an external name

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 H1031 - Please specify an external number or an external name ?

  The SAP error message H1031, which states "Please specify an external number or an external name," typically occurs in scenarios where the system expects an external identifier (like a number or name) but does not receive one. This can happen in various contexts, such as when creating or updating records that require an external reference.
  Causes:
  
  Missing Input: The user may not have filled in the required fields for an external number or name.
  Incorrect Field Mapping: The fields in the transaction or program may not be correctly mapped to the expected external identifiers.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the system that require an external number or name but are not set up correctly.
  Data Entry Errors: Users might be entering data in the wrong format or in the wrong fields.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Required Fields: Ensure that all mandatory fields, especially those for external numbers or names, are filled out correctly.
  Review Input Format: Verify that the input format for the external number or name matches the expected format (e.g., length, character type).
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the relevant SAP documentation or help files for the specific transaction or module you are working with to understand the requirements for external identifiers.
  Configuration Review: If you have access, check the configuration settings in the relevant module to ensure that external identifiers are set up correctly.
  User Training: If this error is common among users, consider providing additional training or documentation to help them understand the requirements for entering external identifiers.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error may occur in various transaction codes, so identifying the specific transaction can help narrow down the issue.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Debugging: If you have access to technical resources, debugging the program or transaction that generates this error can provide insights into why the external number or name is not being recognized.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant who can provide more in-depth assistance.