How To Fix PO188 - Action data was written to the temporary buffer

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 188

• Message text: Action data was written to the temporary buffer

What causes this issue?

The editor was left with 'Save', but the changes made were only stored
temporarily.
This allows you to undo the changes using the functions 'Copy action'
or 'Copy format' before you save your data permanently. These functions
are available after you leave the editor or in the action overview.

System Response

How to fix this error?

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PO188 - Action data was written to the temporary buffer ?

  The SAP error message PO188, which states "Action data was written to the temporary buffer," typically occurs in the context of the SAP system when there is an issue with processing certain actions related to purchase orders or other transactional data. This message indicates that the system has encountered a situation where it cannot immediately process the action and has instead stored the data in a temporary buffer for later processing.
  Cause:
  
  
  Temporary Buffering: The system may be unable to process the action immediately due to various reasons, such as:
  
  System performance issues or high load.
  Missing or incorrect data in the transaction.
  Configuration issues in the relevant modules (e.g., MM, SD).
  Locking issues where another process is currently using the data.
  
  
  
  Background Processing: The action may require background processing, and the system has queued the action for later execution.
  
  
  User Authorization: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to perform the action immediately.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Background Jobs: If the action is queued for background processing, check the status of background jobs in transaction SM37. Look for any jobs related to the action that was attempted.
  
  
  Review Logs: Use transaction SLG1 to review application logs for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about why the action was buffered.
  
  
  Data Validation: Ensure that all required data is complete and correct. Check for any missing fields or incorrect entries in the purchase order or related documents.
  
  
  System Performance: If the system is under heavy load, consider checking system performance metrics and optimizing the system if necessary.
  
  
  Authorization Check: Verify that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the action. This can be done by checking the user roles and authorizations in transaction SU01.
  
  
  Reprocess the Buffer: If the action is still in the buffer, you may need to manually trigger the reprocessing of the buffered data. This can often be done through specific transactions or programs designed to handle buffered actions.
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error message or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SM37 (Job Monitoring), SLG1 (Application Log), and SU01 (User Maintenance).
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to the specific module (e.g., MM for Materials Management) to understand the context of the error better.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further investigation.