How To Fix LOP020 - External reference &1 is not unique for the option list. Key &2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: LOP - Logistical contract options

• Message number: 020

• Message text: External reference &1 is not unique for the option list. Key &2

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message LOP020 - External reference &1 is not unique for the option list. Key &2 ?

  The SAP error message LOP020 indicates that there is a problem with the uniqueness of an external reference in the option list. This typically occurs in the context of configuration or master data management, where the system expects a unique identifier for a specific option but finds multiple entries that match the criteria.
  Cause:
  The error message "LOP020 External reference &1 is not unique for the option list. Key &2" usually arises due to one of the following reasons:
  
  
  Duplicate Entries: There are multiple entries in the option list that share the same external reference. This can happen if data was imported or created incorrectly, leading to duplicates.
  
  
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration settings for the option list may not be set up correctly, leading to conflicts in how external references are defined.
  
  
  Data Integrity Issues: There may be issues with data integrity in the database, where the expected relationships between data elements are not maintained.
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the LOP020 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check for Duplicates:
  
  Go to the relevant transaction or table where the option list is maintained.
  Search for the external reference (indicated by &1) and check if there are multiple entries with the same reference.
  If duplicates are found, determine which entries are valid and remove or correct the duplicates.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration:
  
  Check the configuration settings for the option list to ensure that they are set up correctly.
  Make sure that the external references are defined in a way that guarantees uniqueness.
  
  
  
  Data Cleanup:
  
  If the issue is due to data integrity problems, consider running data cleanup processes or using tools provided by SAP to identify and resolve inconsistencies.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on managing option lists and external references.
  
  
  
  Contact Support:
  
  If the issue persists after checking for duplicates and reviewing configurations, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on your SAP version, you may use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE16 (Data Browser), or specific configuration transactions related to your module to investigate the issue.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  User Forums: SAP Community and other user forums can be valuable resources for finding similar issues faced by other users and their solutions.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the LOP020 error in your SAP system.