How To Fix ME720 - Only options "EQ" and "NE" make sense for selection by item category

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 720

• Message text: Only options "EQ" and "NE" make sense for selection by item category

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ME720 - Only options "EQ" and "NE" make sense for selection by item category ?

  The SAP error message ME720 indicates that there is an issue with the selection criteria used in a report or transaction related to item categories in purchasing documents. Specifically, it states that only the options "EQ" (Equal) and "NE" (Not Equal) are valid for selection by item category.
  Cause:
  This error typically occurs when a user attempts to use an invalid operator for filtering item categories in a selection screen or report. The item category is a critical field in purchasing documents (like purchase orders, requisitions, etc.), and the system expects specific operators for filtering based on this field.
  Solution:
  To resolve the ME720 error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Selection Criteria: Review the selection criteria you are using in the report or transaction. Ensure that you are only using "EQ" (Equal) or "NE" (Not Equal) for the item category field.
  
  
  Modify the Query: If you are using a custom query or report, modify it to ensure that the item category selection uses the correct operators. For example:
  
  If you want to select a specific item category, use EQ (e.g., Item Category EQ 'A').
  If you want to exclude a specific item category, use NE (e.g., Item Category NE 'A').
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the valid item categories or their meanings, refer to the SAP documentation or the configuration settings in your system.
  
  
  Test the Changes: After making the necessary adjustments, run the report or transaction again to see if the error persists.
  
  
  Seek Help: If you continue to experience issues, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with a functional consultant who specializes in the purchasing module.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Item Categories: In SAP, item categories define the type of items being procured (e.g., standard, consignment, subcontracting). Each category has specific attributes and behaviors in purchasing documents.
  SAP Documentation: For more detailed information on item categories and their usage, refer to the SAP Help Portal or the specific module documentation.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes (like ME21N for creating purchase orders) to better understand where this error might occur.
  
  By ensuring that you are using the correct operators for item categories, you should be able to resolve the ME720 error effectively.