How To Fix MW596 - Enter a material

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 596

• Message text: Enter a material

What causes this issue?

A material must be entered for this selection.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

Enter a material or change the selection.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MW596 - Enter a material ?

  The SAP error message MW596, which states "Enter a material," typically occurs when a user attempts to perform an action in the system that requires a material number, but none has been provided. This error is common in various transactions related to inventory management, purchasing, or production where a material is essential for processing.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Material Number: The most straightforward cause is that the user has not entered a material number in the relevant field.
  Incorrect Field Focus: The cursor may be in the wrong field, leading to the impression that a material number has been entered when it has not.
  Data Entry Error: The user may have entered an invalid or non-existent material number, which the system does not recognize.
  Transaction Context: The transaction being executed may inherently require a material number, and if it is not provided, the system will throw this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Enter a Material Number: Ensure that you enter a valid material number in the appropriate field. Check for typos or incorrect entries.
  Use Material Search: If you are unsure of the material number, use the search functionality (often represented by a magnifying glass icon) to find the correct material.
  Check Transaction Requirements: Review the transaction you are trying to execute to ensure that you are following the correct steps and providing all necessary information.
  Consult Material Master Data: If you believe the material number should exist, check the material master data to confirm that the material is created and active.
  User Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to access the material data. Sometimes, restrictions can lead to issues in data visibility.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Material Master: The material master is a central repository of information about materials in SAP. It is essential to ensure that the material you are trying to use is properly set up in the system.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes (like MM01 for creating materials, MM02 for changing, and MM03 for displaying) to manage material data effectively.
  SAP Help Documentation: Refer to SAP's official documentation or help portal for more detailed guidance on handling material-related transactions and error messages.
  User Training: If this error occurs frequently, consider additional training for users on how to properly enter and manage material data in SAP.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the MW596 error and continue with your SAP transactions effectively.