How To Fix /PLMI/SP_MAT016 - External Material Group description not found for language &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /PLMI/SP_MAT -

• Message number: 016

• Message text: External Material Group description not found for language &1

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /PLMI/SP_MAT016 - External Material Group description not found for language &1 ?

  The SAP error message /PLMI/SP_MAT016 indicates that the system is unable to find a description for the specified External Material Group in the given language. This typically occurs when the external material group has not been properly defined or translated in the system for the specified language.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Description: The external material group has been created, but a description has not been provided for the specified language.
  Language Settings: The language settings in the user profile or the system may not be configured correctly, leading to the inability to retrieve the description.
  Data Inconsistency: There may be inconsistencies in the master data where the external material group is defined.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check External Material Group:
  
  Go to the transaction code MM02 (Change Material) or MM03 (Display Material).
  Enter the material number and check the external material group assigned to it.
  Verify if the external material group exists in the system.
  
  
  
  Maintain Descriptions:
  
  Use transaction code SPRO to navigate to the configuration settings.
  Go to Logistics - General > Material Master > External Material Group > Maintain External Material Group.
  Ensure that the external material group has a description for the required language. If not, add the missing description.
  
  
  
  Check Language Settings:
  
  Ensure that the language settings in your user profile are correct. You can check this in the user settings or by using transaction SU01 to view your user profile.
  If necessary, change the language to one that is supported and has descriptions available.
  
  
  
  Data Consistency Check:
  
  Run a consistency check on the material master data to ensure there are no discrepancies.
  You can use transaction MMR1 to check for inconsistencies in the material master.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If the issue persists, consult SAP documentation or reach out to your SAP support team for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  MM02 - Change Material
  MM03 - Display Material
  SPRO - Customizing Implementation Guide
  SU01 - User Maintenance
  MMR1 - Material Master Data Consistency Check
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  User Roles: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to view and edit material master data.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error message and ensure that the external material group descriptions are properly maintained in the system.