How To Fix PV478 - The short name &2 is not unique

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PV - Training and Event Management

• Message number: 478

• Message text: The short name &2 is not unique

What causes this issue?

You have entered "&V1&" as the short name for the object. Another
object has been found in the database (object ID &V3&) with this name.
Your entry was converted to upper case letters to check whether another
object exists with this changed abbreviation &V2&.
This is not an error, it is just for your information.

System Response

None

How to fix this error?

If you wish to identify your objects with unique abbreviations, you
should choose another short name.
It is not mandatory to use unique names but it is advisable since it
speeds up the selection process when you enter a search string for your
object.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PV478 - The short name &2 is not unique ?

  The SAP error message PV478, which states "The short name &2 is not unique," typically occurs when there is a conflict with the short name (or abbreviation) used in the system. This error is often encountered in various contexts, such as when defining or maintaining master data, configuration settings, or other entities that require unique identifiers.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is that the short name (or identifier) you are trying to use is already in use by another entity in the system. SAP requires that certain identifiers be unique to avoid confusion and ensure data integrity.
  Solution:
  To resolve the PV478 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify the Conflict:
  
  Check the short name you are trying to use and see if it is already assigned to another entity. You can do this by searching in the relevant transaction or table where the short name is defined.
  
  
  
  Choose a Unique Short Name:
  
  If the short name is already in use, you will need to select a different, unique short name that is not currently assigned to any other entity.
  
  
  
  Update the Record:
  
  Once you have chosen a new unique short name, update the record or configuration where you encountered the error.
  
  
  
  Check for Similar Names:
  
  Ensure that the new short name does not closely resemble other existing names to avoid future conflicts.
  
  
  
  Test the Changes:
  
  After making the changes, test the functionality to ensure that the error no longer occurs and that the system behaves as expected.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on where you are encountering the error, you may be using different transaction codes (e.g., SE11 for data dictionary, SE78 for SAP ArchiveLink, etc.).
  Data Dictionary: If you are working with data dictionary objects, you can use transaction SE11 to check for existing entries with the same short name.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on naming conventions and unique identifiers in your particular module or area of SAP.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis or technical team for further investigation, as there may be underlying issues related to system configuration or data integrity.