How To Fix MM016 - Follow the instructions in Note 487381 before initialization

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MM - Messages for material master maintenance and Customizing

• Message number: 016

• Message text: Follow the instructions in Note 487381 before initialization

What causes this issue?

You want to run the period initialization program. Note that when you
start the period closing with initialization, inconsistencies can arise.

How to fix this error?

Note 487381 describes the possible data inconsistencies that can occur
if you perform initialization in a productive system. The
inconsistencies cannot be traced back to a system error, but instead the
period closing with initialization. Therefore, these inconsistencies can
only be cleared by using the chargeable remote consulting service. This
is because in releases higher than 4.5, the period closer does not
normally have to be started with initialization.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MM016 - Follow the instructions in Note 487381 before initialization ?

  The SAP error message MM016, which states "Follow the instructions in Note 487381 before initialization," typically occurs in the context of Material Management (MM) when there are issues related to the initialization of the material master data or inventory management.
  Cause:
  The error is often triggered when the system detects that certain prerequisites or configurations have not been met before attempting to initialize the material master or inventory data. This can happen due to:
  
  Missing Configuration: Certain settings or configurations in the system may not be properly set up.
  Data Inconsistencies: There may be inconsistencies or missing data in the material master records or related tables.
  System Version: The error may also arise if the system version does not support the operations being attempted.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the MM016 error, you should follow the instructions provided in SAP Note 487381. Here are general steps you might consider:
  
  
  Read SAP Note 487381: Access the SAP Support Portal and read the details of Note 487381. This note will provide specific instructions and guidelines tailored to your situation.
  
  
  Check Configuration: Ensure that all necessary configurations related to material management and inventory management are correctly set up. This may include checking settings in the following areas:
  
  Material types
  Valuation classes
  Plant settings
  Storage locations
  
  
  
  Data Consistency Check: Perform a consistency check on the material master data. You can use transaction codes like MM02 (Change Material) or MM03 (Display Material) to verify the data.
  
  
  Initialization Process: If you are in the process of initializing data, ensure that you are following the correct sequence of steps as outlined in the note. This may involve running specific programs or transactions in a particular order.
  
  
  Consult with SAP Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue after following the note, consider reaching out to SAP Support for further assistance. They can provide more detailed guidance based on your specific system configuration and version.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Always check for the latest SAP Notes related to your issue, as they may provide updates or additional solutions.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as MM01 (Create Material), MM02 (Change Material), and MM03 (Display Material) for managing material master data.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation and guides related to Material Management for best practices and troubleshooting tips.
  
  By following these steps and consulting the relevant SAP Note, you should be able to address the MM016 error effectively.