How To Fix RSCOPY042 - A variant already exists with overlapping functionality

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RSCOPY - Data Flow Copy

• Message number: 042

• Message text: A variant already exists with overlapping functionality

What causes this issue?

You want to create the process variant&V1& . However the variant &V2&
already exists which operates on the same objects as the variant you
want to create. If both variants are executed simultaneously, this may
result in errors.

System Response

The function is continued.

How to fix this error?

Choose a suitable variant from the variant list or make sure that the
various different variants do not operate on the same data flow objects.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RSCOPY042 - A variant already exists with overlapping functionality ?

  The SAP error message RSCOPY042 indicates that there is an attempt to create or copy a variant that already exists with overlapping functionality. This typically occurs in the context of SAP reports or programs where variants are used to store specific selection criteria for executing reports.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when:
  
  You are trying to create a new variant with the same name as an existing variant.
  The new variant has selection criteria that overlap with those of an existing variant.
  The system detects that the new variant would not provide any additional functionality or differentiation from the existing one.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the RSCOPY042 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Variants:
  
  Go to the transaction where you are trying to create or copy the variant (e.g., SE38 for ABAP programs).
  Use the variant management options to list existing variants for the report or program in question.
  Identify if a variant with the same name or overlapping functionality already exists.
  
  
  
  Rename the New Variant:
  
  If you are trying to create a new variant, consider using a different name that does not conflict with existing variants.
  
  
  
  Modify Existing Variant:
  
  If the new variant is intended to replace or enhance an existing one, consider modifying the existing variant instead of creating a new one.
  
  
  
  Review Selection Criteria:
  
  Ensure that the selection criteria you are trying to set for the new variant do not overlap with those of existing variants. Adjust the criteria as necessary.
  
  
  
  Delete or Archive Unused Variants:
  
  If there are variants that are no longer needed, consider deleting or archiving them to reduce clutter and potential conflicts.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You can use transaction codes like SE38 (ABAP Editor) or SA38 (Execute Report) to manage variants.
  Variant Management: Familiarize yourself with the variant management features in SAP, which allow you to create, modify, and delete variants.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for more details on variant management and best practices.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the RSCOPY042 error and manage your variants effectively in SAP.