How To Fix P0217 - Specify either the structure or field name for the return value

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: P0 - Messages for Transactions PE01, PE02 and PE03

• Message number: 217

• Message text: Specify either the structure or field name for the return value

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message P0217 - Specify either the structure or field name for the return value ?

  The SAP error message P0217, which states "Specify either the structure or field name for the return value," typically occurs in the context of ABAP programming, particularly when defining function modules or methods that return values. This error indicates that the system requires a clear specification of the return value's structure or field name, but it has not been provided.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Return Value Specification: The function module or method is defined without specifying the return value's structure or field name.
  Incorrect Syntax: There may be a syntax error in the code where the return value is being defined or used.
  Inconsistent Data Types: The return value may not match the expected data type or structure defined in the function module or method signature.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Function Module/Method Definition:
  
  Ensure that the function module or method is correctly defined with a return parameter. If it is supposed to return a structure or field, make sure that it is explicitly declared.
  Example:
  FUNCTION my_function_module.
    DATA: return_value TYPE my_structure.
    ...
  ENDFUNCTION.
  
  
  
  
  Specify Return Value:
  
  If the function module or method is supposed to return a specific field or structure, make sure to specify it correctly in the code.
  Example:
  RETURNING VALUE(rv_return) TYPE my_structure.
  
  
  
  
  Review Syntax:
  
  Double-check the syntax of your ABAP code to ensure that there are no typographical errors or missing components.
  
  
  
  Use the Correct Data Types:
  
  Ensure that the data types used for the return value are consistent with what is expected in the function module or method signature.
  
  
  
  Debugging:
  
  If the error persists, use the ABAP debugger to step through the code and identify where the return value is being set or called incorrectly.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP Help Portal or ABAP documentation for detailed information on defining function modules and methods, including return parameters.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address specific issues related to this error message.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or discussion boards where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the P0217 error and ensure that your function module or method correctly specifies the return value.