How To Fix RELSTRAT_MSG017 - Release Indicator for an approver cannot be empty

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RELSTRAT_MSG - Release Strategy Messages

• Message number: 017

• Message text: Release Indicator for an 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_MSG017 - Release Indicator for an approver cannot be empty ?

  The SAP error message RELSTRAT_MSG017 indicates that the release indicator for an approver cannot be empty. This error typically occurs in the context of the release strategy configuration in SAP, particularly when setting up approval processes for purchasing documents, such as purchase requisitions or purchase orders.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by the following reasons:
  
  Missing Release Indicator: The release strategy configuration for the document type does not have a release indicator assigned to the approver.
  Incorrect Configuration: The release strategy may not be properly configured in the system, leading to missing or incomplete data for the approver's release indicator.
  Data Entry Error: During the creation or modification of the release strategy, the release indicator for one or more approvers may have been left blank.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Release Strategy Configuration:
  
  Go to the transaction code SPRO (SAP Reference IMG).
  Navigate to Materials Management > Purchasing > Release Strategy > Define Release Strategy.
  Select the relevant release strategy and check the configuration for each release code and approver.
  Ensure that each approver has a valid release indicator assigned.
  
  
  
  Assign Release Indicator:
  
  If you find that the release indicator is missing for an approver, you need to assign a valid release indicator to that approver in the release strategy configuration.
  
  
  
  Validate Document Type:
  
  Ensure that the document type you are working with is correctly linked to the release strategy that has been configured.
  
  
  
  Test the Configuration:
  
  After making the necessary changes, test the release strategy by creating a new purchase requisition or purchase order to ensure that the error no longer occurs.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the configuration, refer to SAP documentation or consult with your SAP functional consultant for guidance on setting up release strategies.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Release Strategy: A mechanism in SAP that allows for the approval of purchasing documents based on predefined criteria.
  Release Codes: Codes that represent different levels of approval in the release strategy.
  Approvers: Users who are responsible for approving documents based on the release strategy.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the RELSTRAT_MSG017 error and ensure that your release strategy is correctly configured.