How To Fix MDG_BS_MAT_SP018 - Wildcard selection is only supported within description fields

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MDG_BS_MAT_SP - Message for MDG material SP

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Wildcard selection is only supported within description fields

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 MDG_BS_MAT_SP018 - Wildcard selection is only supported within description fields ?

  The SAP error message MDG_BS_MAT_SP018 indicates that a wildcard selection (such as using asterisks *) is being attempted in a field that does not support it. In the context of SAP Master Data Governance (MDG), this typically occurs when a user tries to perform a search or filter operation using wildcards in fields that are not designed to handle such queries, particularly in fields that are not description fields.
  Cause:
  
  Field Type: The error arises because the wildcard selection is being applied to a field that does not support it. In SAP, only certain fields, usually those that are text-based or description fields, allow for wildcard searches.
  Search Configuration: The search configuration or the way the search is being executed may not be set up to handle wildcards in non-description fields.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check the Field: Review the field you are trying to use with a wildcard. Ensure that it is a description field or a field that supports wildcard searches.
  Modify Search Criteria: If you need to search for specific data, consider using exact matches or other search criteria that do not involve wildcards.
  Use Description Fields: If you need to perform a search that requires wildcards, try to use fields that are specifically meant for descriptions or text-based searches.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation or help resources for the specific version of MDG you are using to understand which fields support wildcard searches.
  Error Handling: If you are developing or customizing the application, ensure that the search logic correctly handles cases where wildcards are not allowed.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might provide additional context or updates regarding this error message.
  MDG Configuration: Review the configuration settings in your MDG system to ensure that the search functionalities are set up correctly.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on the limitations of wildcard searches in SAP MDG to prevent this error from occurring frequently.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team or consult with an SAP expert for further assistance.