How To Fix RMST1601 - Output layout is write-protected and must not be changed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RMST1 - RMS-TLS: Messages

• Message number: 601

• Message text: Output layout is write-protected and must not be changed

What causes this issue?

This layout is a standard SAP layout. You are not allowed to change it.

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?

Save the layout under a different name.

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 RMST1601 - Output layout is write-protected and must not be changed ?

  The SAP error message RMST1601, which states "Output layout is write-protected and must not be changed," typically occurs when you attempt to modify an output layout that is set to be write-protected. This can happen in various SAP modules, particularly in the context of reporting or output management.
  Cause:
  
  Write Protection: The output layout you are trying to modify is marked as write-protected. This is often done to prevent accidental changes to standard layouts or to maintain consistency in reporting formats.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to change the output layout.
  System Settings: The system may have been configured to restrict changes to certain layouts for compliance or operational reasons.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Layout Settings:
  
  Go to the transaction where the output layout is defined (e.g., transaction SMARTFORMS, SAPscript, or SE78 for forms).
  Verify if the layout is indeed marked as write-protected. If you have the necessary permissions, you can change the status.
  
  
  
  Authorization Check:
  
  Ensure that your user role has the necessary authorizations to modify output layouts. You may need to contact your SAP security administrator to review and adjust your permissions.
  
  
  
  Create a Copy:
  
  If you cannot modify the existing layout, consider creating a copy of the layout. You can then make changes to the copy without affecting the original layout.
  Use the "Copy" function in the layout management screen to create a new version that you can edit.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help files related to the specific module you are working with. There may be specific guidelines or restrictions regarding output layouts.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If you are unable to resolve the issue through the above steps, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. They may provide insights specific to your system configuration.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SMARTFORMS, SE78, or SE71 for SAPscript forms.
  User Roles: Understand the user roles and authorizations in your organization to ensure you have the right access.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to RMST1601 or output layout management that may provide additional context or solutions.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the RMST1601 error and successfully manage your output layouts in SAP.