How To Fix MPE_OAN054 - Specify a reference material

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MPE_OAN - Operation Activity Network Messages

• Message number: 054

• Message text: Specify a reference material

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MPE_OAN054 - Specify a reference material ?

  The SAP error message MPE_OAN054: "Specify a reference material" typically occurs in the context of material management or production planning when a reference material is required but not provided. This error is often encountered in transactions related to material master data, production orders, or when performing certain operations that require a reference for comparison or calculation.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Reference Material: The most common cause is that the system expects a reference material to be specified, but it has not been entered in the relevant field.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the material management module that require a reference material for specific processes.
  Transaction Context: The specific transaction or process you are trying to execute may inherently require a reference material, and if it is not provided, the system will throw this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Specify a Reference Material: 
  
  Go back to the transaction where the error occurred and ensure that you enter a valid reference material in the appropriate field.
  Check if the reference material exists in the system and is active.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration:
  
  If you are a system administrator or have access to configuration settings, review the settings related to the transaction or process to determine if the requirement for a reference material can be adjusted.
  Consult with your SAP MM (Material Management) or PP (Production Planning) consultant if necessary.
  
  
  
  Check User Input:
  
  Ensure that the input format for the reference material is correct (e.g., correct material number, no leading/trailing spaces).
  Validate that the material is not marked as obsolete or inactive.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help files related to the specific transaction you are using to understand the requirements for reference materials.
  
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal IT support team for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error may occur in various transaction codes related to material management, such as MM01 (Create Material), MM02 (Change Material), or during the creation of production orders.
  Material Master Data: Understanding how material master data is structured and maintained in SAP can help in troubleshooting this error.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access and modify material data.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error message MPE_OAN054 and proceed with your SAP transactions.