How To Fix MC291 - Pool & still exists in the database

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MC - Aggregate: views, matchcodes, lock objects

• Message number: 291

• Message text: Pool & still exists in the database

What causes this issue?

When trying to delete a matchcode object, the pool created for the
matchcode object was found to exist still in the database.

System Response

The matchcode definition cannot be deleted from the ABAP/4 Dictionary
because data might be lost during the delete operation. The delete
operation is rejected, no changes are made.

How to fix this error?

The pool belonging to the matchcode object must be explicitly deleted
before the matchcode definition can be removed from the ABAP/4
Dictionary. To delete the matchcode pool, call the function
<LS>Database utility</> from the <LS>Utility</> menu of the matchcode
object maintenance screen. After a save prompt, the matchcode pool is
deleted from the database. The data built for this matchcode are lost
(unless an older database version can be imported).

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MC291 - Pool & still exists in the database ?

  The SAP error message MC291 ("Pool & still exists in the database") typically occurs in the context of the Material Management (MM) module, particularly when dealing with the Material Master or related data structures. This error indicates that there are still entries in the database that are associated with a specific pool, which prevents the deletion or modification of that pool.
  Cause:
  The error is usually caused by one of the following reasons:
  
  Existing Data: There are still records in the database that reference the pool you are trying to delete or modify. This could be related to material documents, inventory records, or other dependent data.
  Incomplete Deletion Process: The deletion process may not have been completed successfully, leaving orphaned records that still reference the pool.
  Data Integrity Constraints: SAP enforces data integrity, and if there are constraints that prevent the deletion of the pool, this error will occur.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the MC291 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Check for Dependent Records:
  
  Use transaction codes like MM03 (Display Material) or MM02 (Change Material) to check if there are any materials or records that still reference the pool.
  You can also use transaction SE16 or SE16N to query the relevant database tables (e.g., MARA, MBEW, etc.) to find any existing records associated with the pool.
  
  
  
  Delete or Archive Dependent Records:
  
  If you find dependent records, you may need to delete or archive them before you can delete the pool. Ensure that you follow your organization's data management policies when doing this.
  
  
  
  Use Transaction Code SARA:
  
  If applicable, you can use transaction SARA to archive data related to the pool. This can help in removing the references that are causing the error.
  
  
  
  Check for Custom Code or Enhancements:
  
  If your SAP system has custom code or enhancements, ensure that they are not interfering with the deletion process. You may need to consult with your ABAP developer.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes:
  
  Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error. There may be patches or updates that can resolve the issue.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance. Provide them with the error message details and any steps you have already taken.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as MM03, MM02, SE16, SARA, and SE11 (Data Dictionary).
  Database Tables: Understand the relevant database tables that may be involved, such as MARA (General Material Data), MBEW (Material Valuation), and others.
  Data Management Policies: Ensure compliance with your organization's data management and archiving policies when deleting or modifying records.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the MC291 error and take appropriate action to resolve it.