How To Fix ME188 - Error in: '&'; variable(s): '&' '&'

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 188

• Message text: Error in: '&'; variable(s): '&' '&'

INCLUDE INTERN_FEHLER_NA LANGUAGE EN

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ME188 - Error in: '&'; variable(s): '&' '&' ?

  The SAP error message ME188 typically indicates that there is an issue related to the purchase order (PO) or the material document in the context of purchasing. The message format suggests that it is a generic error message, and the specific details (represented by the placeholders '&') would provide more context about the exact nature of the error.
  Possible Causes:
  
  
  Missing or Incorrect Data: The error may arise due to missing or incorrect data in the purchase order or material document. This could include missing vendor information, incorrect material numbers, or invalid quantities.
  
  
  Document Status: The purchase order or related documents may be in a status that does not allow for the action you are trying to perform (e.g., the PO is already closed or has been deleted).
  
  
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to perform the action related to the purchase order.
  
  
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration issues in the purchasing module that are causing the error.
  
  
  Data Consistency: There could be inconsistencies in the data between different documents (e.g., between the purchase order and the goods receipt).
  
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Data: Review the purchase order or material document for any missing or incorrect information. Ensure that all required fields are filled out correctly.
  
  
  Document Status: Verify the status of the purchase order. If it is closed or has been deleted, you may need to create a new purchase order or reactivate the existing one if possible.
  
  
  Authorization Check: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the action. If not, contact your SAP security team to request the appropriate access.
  
  
  Configuration Review: Consult with your SAP configuration team to check if there are any issues with the configuration settings in the purchasing module.
  
  
  Data Consistency Check: Use transaction codes like ME23N (Display Purchase Order) or MB03 (Display Material Document) to check for inconsistencies between related documents.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error message. There may be patches or updates that resolve known issues.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME22N (Change Purchase Order), and ME23N (Display Purchase Order) to navigate and troubleshoot effectively.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to purchasing and error handling for more detailed guidance.
  
  If the error persists after checking these areas, it may be beneficial to involve your SAP support team for further investigation.