How To Fix MEPO173 - Purchase order &1 is in approval. You can only display it, not edit it.


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: MEPO - New Purchase Order Dialog

  • Message number: 173

  • Message text: Purchase order &1 is in approval. You can only display it, not edit it.

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

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    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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MEPO173 - Purchase order &1 is in approval. You can only display it, not edit it. ?

    The SAP error message MEPO173 indicates that a purchase order (PO) is currently in an approval process, which means that it cannot be edited until the approval is completed. This is a common scenario in organizations that have implemented a workflow for purchase order approvals to ensure that all POs are reviewed and authorized before any changes can be made.

    Cause:

    1. Approval Workflow: The purchase order is part of an approval workflow, and it is currently awaiting approval from designated approvers.
    2. Status of the PO: The status of the purchase order is set to "In Approval," which restricts editing capabilities.
    3. User Permissions: The user may not have the necessary permissions to edit POs that are in the approval process.

    Solution:

    1. Check Approval Status: Verify the current status of the purchase order. You can do this by navigating to the purchase order in the SAP system and checking the approval workflow status.
    2. Contact Approver: If you need to make changes to the purchase order, contact the person responsible for approving the PO and request that they either approve it or reject it so that you can make the necessary edits.
    3. Wait for Approval: If the PO is in the process of being approved, you may need to wait until the approval is completed before you can edit it.
    4. Review User Permissions: If you believe you should have the ability to edit the PO, check with your SAP administrator to ensure that your user role has the necessary permissions to edit purchase orders in approval status.

    Related Information:

    • Transaction Codes: You can use transaction codes like ME23N (Display Purchase Order) to view the details of the purchase order and its approval status.
    • Workflow Monitoring: Use transaction codes like SWI1 or SWI2_FREQ to monitor the workflow and see which approvers are assigned to the purchase order.
    • Documentation: Refer to your organization's SAP documentation or user manuals for specific procedures related to purchase order approvals and editing.

    By following these steps, you should be able to address the MEPO173 error and understand the context of the purchase order's approval status.

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