How To Fix RELSTRAT_MSG016 - Previous approver cannot be empty

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RELSTRAT_MSG - Release Strategy Messages

• Message number: 016

• Message text: Previous approver cannot be empty

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RELSTRAT_MSG016 - Previous approver cannot be empty ?

  The SAP error message RELSTRAT_MSG016: Previous approver cannot be empty typically occurs in the context of workflow approvals, particularly when dealing with release strategies in materials management or procurement processes. This error indicates that the system expects a previous approver to be specified, but it is currently missing.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Previous Approver: The workflow or release strategy configuration requires a previous approver to be defined, but it has not been set up correctly.
  Incorrect Workflow Configuration: The workflow may not be configured properly, leading to the system not recognizing the previous approver.
  Data Entry Error: During the approval process, the user may have skipped a step or not filled in the required fields.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Workflow Configuration:
  
  Go to the workflow configuration settings in SAP (transaction code SWDD or SWU3).
  Ensure that the workflow for the release strategy is correctly set up and that the previous approver is defined in the workflow steps.
  
  
  
  Review Release Strategy:
  
  Navigate to the release strategy configuration (transaction code OME4).
  Verify that the release strategy is correctly defined and that all necessary approvers are included.
  
  
  
  Data Entry:
  
  If you are manually entering the approval, ensure that you have selected the previous approver from the list of approvers.
  Check if there are any mandatory fields that need to be filled out before proceeding with the approval.
  
  
  
  User Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that the user attempting to approve has the necessary authorizations to view and select the previous approver.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific details on the release strategy and workflow configuration.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME28 (Release Purchase Orders), ME29N (Release Purchase Order), and SWDD (Workflow Builder).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Training and Documentation: Review training materials or documentation related to SAP workflow and release strategies to ensure proper understanding and configuration.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.