How To Fix ME420 - The system was not able to select a work list (Please check your input)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 420

• Message text: The system was not able to select a work list (Please check your input)

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 ME420 - The system was not able to select a work list (Please check your input) ?

  The SAP error message ME420, which states "The system was not able to select a work list (Please check your input)," typically occurs in the context of the Materials Management (MM) module, particularly when dealing with purchasing documents or work lists related to procurement processes.
  Causes of ME420 Error
  
  
  Incorrect Input Parameters: The input criteria you provided for generating the work list may be incorrect or incomplete. This could include incorrect document types, dates, or other selection criteria.
  
  
  No Data Available: There may be no data available that meets the criteria you specified. This could happen if there are no purchase requisitions, purchase orders, or other relevant documents that match your input.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to view the work list or the specific documents.
  
  
  System Configuration: There may be issues with the configuration of the work list or the underlying data structures in the SAP system.
  
  
  Technical Issues: There could be temporary technical issues with the SAP system, such as performance problems or database issues.
  
  
  Solutions to ME420 Error
  
  
  Check Input Parameters: Review the input criteria you have entered. Ensure that all fields are filled out correctly and that the values are valid. For example, check the document types, date ranges, and any other filters.
  
  
  Verify Data Availability: Check if there are any existing documents that meet your criteria. You can do this by running a broader search or checking the relevant tables directly.
  
  
  Review Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to access the work list. You may need to contact your SAP security team to verify your permissions.
  
  
  Consult Configuration Settings: If you have access to configuration settings, check if the work list is properly configured. This may involve looking at the settings in transaction codes like SPRO or checking with your SAP Basis team.
  
  
  Check for System Issues: If the problem persists, it may be worth checking with your IT department or SAP Basis team to see if there are any ongoing system issues or maintenance activities that could be affecting performance.
  
  
  Use Alternative Transactions: If the work list is not available, consider using alternative transactions or reports to access the information you need.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes in the MM module, such as ME5A (Display Purchase Requisitions) or ME2N (Display Purchase Orders by PO Number), which may help you find the information you need without relying on the work list.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or user manuals related to the MM module for more context on work lists and their configuration.
  
  
  If the issue continues after trying these solutions, it may be beneficial to escalate the problem to your SAP support team for further investigation.