How To Fix QS420 - Activation of multiple specifications cannot be reversed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: QS - QM: Master data

• Message number: 420

• Message text: Activation of multiple specifications cannot be reversed

What causes this issue?

Activating the "Multiple Specifications" function in the current client
enables you to set up inspection plans that have multiple
specifications.
To avoid confusion, you can only deactivate this function in exceptional
cases. An example of an exceptional case is if there are no inspection
plans in the system that have multiple specifications. Note that the
system does not consider the change status when doing this. This means
that the function cannot be deactivated for as long as an inspection
plan with multiple specifications exists; even if the specification has
become invalid.
There will not be any functional restrictions if you cannot deactivate
the function at a later stage. However, the fields for multiple
specifications remain visible in the individual transactions throughout
the whole client.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message QS420 - Activation of multiple specifications cannot be reversed ?

  The SAP error message QS420, which states "Activation of multiple specifications cannot be reversed," typically occurs in the context of Quality Management (QM) when dealing with material specifications or inspection plans. This error indicates that there is an attempt to reverse the activation of multiple specifications, which is not allowed in the system.
  Cause:
  
  Multiple Specifications Activation: The error arises when there is an attempt to deactivate or reverse the activation of multiple specifications at once. SAP does not allow this operation because it can lead to inconsistencies in the data.
  System Restrictions: The system is designed to maintain data integrity, and reversing the activation of multiple specifications could potentially disrupt the relationships and dependencies between them.
  
  Solution:
  
  Single Specification Deactivation: Instead of trying to reverse the activation of multiple specifications at once, you should deactivate them one at a time. This can be done through the appropriate transaction codes in SAP, such as QS21 (Change Material Specification) or QS22 (Change Inspection Plan).
  Check Dependencies: Before attempting to deactivate a specification, ensure that there are no dependencies or active processes that rely on the specifications you are trying to deactivate.
  Consult Documentation: Review the SAP documentation or help files related to Quality Management and specifications for any additional guidelines or restrictions that may apply.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this issue or provide additional insights or patches that could resolve the problem.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as QS21, QS22, and QS23 for managing specifications and inspection plans.
  Quality Management Module: Understanding the broader context of the Quality Management module in SAP can help in troubleshooting and resolving issues related to specifications.
  User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to perform the actions you are attempting, as lack of permissions can also lead to errors.
  SAP Community and Forums: Engaging with the SAP community or forums can provide additional insights and solutions from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant who specializes in SAP QM for further assistance.