How To Fix IM356 - Create item before creating item long text

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IM - Maintenance notifications

• Message number: 356

• Message text: Create item before creating item long text

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 IM356 - Create item before creating item long text ?

  The SAP error message IM356 ("Create item before creating item long text") typically occurs in the context of creating or managing items in SAP, particularly when dealing with item long texts in documents such as purchase orders, sales orders, or material master records. This error indicates that the system is expecting an item to be created before you can add or manage long text associated with that item.
  Cause:
  The error is usually caused by one of the following reasons:
  
  Item Not Created: The item you are trying to associate a long text with has not been created yet in the document.
  Incorrect Sequence of Operations: The system requires that the item be created first before any long text can be added. If you attempt to add long text before the item exists, this error will occur.
  Data Entry Error: There may be a mistake in the data entry process, such as trying to save or process a document without completing all required fields.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the IM356 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Create the Item First: Ensure that the item you are trying to add long text to is created in the document. This usually involves filling out the necessary fields in the item creation screen and saving the item.
  
  
  Check Document Flow: If you are working within a larger document (like a purchase order), ensure that the item has been properly added to the document before attempting to add long text.
  
  
  Review the Process: Make sure you are following the correct sequence of operations as required by the SAP system. Typically, the steps should be:
  
  Create the main document (e.g., purchase order).
  Add items to the document.
  After items are created, you can then add long texts.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the process, refer to SAP documentation or user manuals specific to the module you are working with (e.g., MM for materials management, SD for sales and distribution).
  
  
  Check User Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to create items and long texts in the system.
  
  
  Contact Support: If the issue persists after following the above steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes (e.g., ME21N for creating purchase orders, VA01 for creating sales orders) that you may be using when encountering this error.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Training: If you are new to SAP, consider undergoing training to better understand the system's workflow and item management processes.
  
  By following these guidelines, you should be able to resolve the IM356 error and successfully manage item long texts in SAP.