How To Fix J#236 - Unable to copy planning variant; it contains no planning parameters

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: J# -

• Message number: 236

• Message text: Unable to copy planning variant; it contains no planning parameters

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message J#236 - Unable to copy planning variant; it contains no planning parameters ?

  The SAP error message J#236, "Unable to copy planning variant; it contains no planning parameters," typically occurs when you attempt to copy a planning variant in SAP that does not have any planning parameters defined. This can happen in various SAP modules, particularly in SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP BPC (Business Planning and Consolidation).
  Cause:
  
  No Planning Parameters Defined: The planning variant you are trying to copy does not have any parameters set up. Planning parameters are essential for defining how data is to be processed or displayed in the planning variant.
  Incorrect Variant Selection: You may have selected a variant that is not intended for copying or does not meet the necessary criteria for copying.
  System Configuration Issues: There may be issues with the configuration of the planning area or the planning model that prevent the copying of the variant.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Planning Parameters: 
  
  Go to the original planning variant and check if it has any planning parameters defined. If it does not, you will need to create or modify the variant to include the necessary parameters before attempting to copy it.
  
  
  
  Create a New Planning Variant:
  
  If the original variant is not usable, consider creating a new planning variant from scratch with the required parameters.
  
  
  
  Review Variant Settings:
  
  Ensure that you are selecting the correct variant for copying. Sometimes, users may inadvertently select a variant that is not meant to be copied.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on how to properly set up planning variants and their parameters.
  
  
  
  Check User Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to copy planning variants. Lack of permissions can sometimes lead to unexpected errors.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. They may provide insights specific to your system configuration or version.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Planning Variants: These are configurations in SAP that define how planning data is displayed and processed. They include settings for key figures, characteristics, and planning parameters.
  SAP BW/BPC Documentation: SAP provides extensive documentation on how to work with planning variants, including best practices for setting them up and troubleshooting common issues.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as RSPLAN for planning in BW or BPC transaction codes for BPC-related tasks.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and successfully copy or create the planning variant you need.