How To Fix PFM_GENERIC021 - An invalid Output Type was specified


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: PFM_GENERIC - Messages to be reused on ADDON PT

  • Message number: 021

  • Message text: An invalid Output Type was specified

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  • 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.



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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PFM_GENERIC021 - An invalid Output Type was specified ?

    The SAP error message PFM_GENERIC021 indicates that an invalid output type has been specified in the context of a process, typically related to output management in SAP. This error can occur in various scenarios, such as when trying to print documents, send emails, or generate outputs in SAP applications.

    Cause

    The error can be caused by several factors, including:

    1. Incorrect Output Type: The output type specified in the configuration or during the execution of a transaction does not exist or is not valid for the document type being processed.
    2. Configuration Issues: The output type may not be properly configured in the system. This includes missing settings in the output determination procedure or incorrect assignment of output types to the relevant document types.
    3. Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access or use the specified output type.
    4. Data Issues: The data being processed may not meet the criteria for the specified output type, leading to the error.

    Solution

    To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:

    1. Check Output Type:

      • Verify that the output type specified is valid for the document type you are working with. You can do this by checking the configuration in the relevant output determination settings (e.g., for sales orders, purchase orders, etc.).
    2. Review Configuration:

      • Go to the output determination configuration (e.g., transaction code NACE for output types) and ensure that the output type is correctly defined and assigned to the appropriate application area (e.g., Sales, Purchasing).
      • Check if the output type is active and properly configured with the necessary conditions.
    3. Check User Authorizations:

      • Ensure that the user executing the transaction has the necessary authorizations to use the specified output type. This may involve checking roles and authorizations in the user profile.
    4. Test with Different Data:

      • If applicable, try processing the output with different data to see if the issue persists. This can help identify if the problem is data-related.
    5. Consult Documentation:

      • Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on the output type and its configuration.
    6. Contact SAP Support:

      • If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance, especially if it appears to be a system or configuration issue.

    Related Information

    • Transaction Codes: NACE (Output Types), SPRO (Customizing), and other relevant transaction codes for output management.
    • SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address known issues or provide additional guidance on the error.
    • Output Determination Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the output determination procedures relevant to your business processes, as they can vary by application area.

    By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the PFM_GENERIC021 error in SAP.

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