How To Fix MW038 - Program can only be run in the background (see long text)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MW - Messages IS-R / Allocation Tables

• Message number: 038

• Message text: Program can only be run in the background (see long text)

What causes this issue?

You cannot run this program online, as it is only processed in the
background.
&what_to_do&
You can either:

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Generate documents online
Generate documents for several allocation tables
From the Allocation menu, choose "Allocation table-> Generate follow-on
documents"
Generate documents for one allocation table
Choose "Allocation table -> Display" and then "Allocation table ->
Generate follow-on documents"
Generate documents in the background
Create a selection variant and run the program in the background or
schedule the program as a job.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MW038 - Program can only be run in the background (see long text) ?

  The SAP error message MW038, which states "Program can only be run in the background," typically occurs when a user attempts to execute a program or transaction that is designed to be run only in the background processing mode, rather than in the foreground.
  Cause:
  
  Program Design: The program you are trying to execute is specifically designed to run in the background. This is often the case for programs that process large amounts of data or require significant processing time.
  Transaction Type: Some transactions are inherently background jobs due to their nature, such as batch processing or data uploads.
  User Permissions: In some cases, the user may not have the necessary permissions to run the program in the foreground.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Run in Background: To resolve this error, you should run the program in the background. You can do this by:
  
  Using the transaction code SM37 to monitor background jobs.
  If you are in a transaction that allows background processing, look for an option to execute the job in the background (often found in the menu under "Program" or "Execute").
  You can also use the transaction code SE38 or SA38 to execute the program in the background by selecting the "Execute in Background" option.
  
  
  
  Check Documentation: Review the documentation or long text associated with the program to understand its requirements and any specific instructions for running it.
  
  
  Consult with SAP Basis or Development Team: If you believe the program should be runnable in the foreground or if you need to modify its behavior, consult with your SAP Basis or development team. They can provide insights into the program's design and whether any changes are necessary.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Background Jobs: Background jobs in SAP are used for processing tasks that do not require user interaction. They are scheduled and can be monitored through transaction SM37.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SE38 (ABAP Editor), SM37 (Job Monitoring), and SM36 (Define Background Job).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to the specific program you are trying to run.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the MW038 error and successfully execute the program as intended.