How To Fix MM_PUR_SES079 - External Item Reference is a mandatory field.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MM_PUR_SES -

• Message number: 079

• Message text: External Item Reference is a mandatory field.

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MM_PUR_SES079 - External Item Reference is a mandatory field. ?

  The SAP error message MM_PUR_SES079, which states "External Item Reference is a mandatory field," typically occurs in the context of purchasing documents, such as purchase orders or purchase requisitions, when the system expects an external item reference to be provided but it is missing.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when:
  
  You are trying to create or modify a purchasing document (like a purchase order or requisition) that requires an external item reference, but this field has not been filled in.
  The configuration of the purchasing document type or the item category mandates that the external item reference must be provided.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check the Document Type Configuration:
  
  Go to the configuration settings for the purchasing document type in SAP (transaction code SPRO).
  Navigate to the relevant settings for purchasing documents and check if the external item reference is set as a mandatory field.
  
  
  
  Fill in the External Item Reference:
  
  When creating or editing the purchasing document, ensure that you fill in the "External Item Reference" field. This field may be labeled differently depending on your SAP version or customization, but it generally refers to an identifier that links the item to an external system or reference.
  
  
  
  Review Item Category Settings:
  
  Check the item category settings in the purchasing document. Some item categories may require the external item reference to be filled in. You can do this by navigating to the item category configuration in SPRO.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation or Help:
  
  If you are unsure about what to enter in the external item reference field, consult your organization's documentation or reach out to your SAP support team for guidance.
  
  
  
  User Training:
  
  Ensure that users involved in creating or modifying purchasing documents are trained on the importance of the external item reference and how to properly fill it in.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may use transaction codes like ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME51N (Create Purchase Requisition), or ME22N (Change Purchase Order) to work with purchasing documents.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message, as there may be known issues or fixes provided by SAP.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for additional insights or similar experiences from other users.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the MM_PUR_SES079 error and successfully create or modify your purchasing documents in SAP.