How To Fix RSM221 - Specify a length or a template

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RSM -

• Message number: 221

• Message text: Specify a length or a template

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RSM221 - Specify a length or a template ?

  The SAP error message RSM221 ("Specify a length or a template") typically occurs in the context of data extraction or transformation processes, particularly when working with data sources in SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or during the creation of InfoObjects, DataSources, or InfoPackages.
  Cause:
  This error usually arises when:
  
  Missing Length Specification: A field or characteristic in your data model requires a length specification, but it has not been provided. This is common when defining characteristics or key figures in InfoObjects.
  Template Requirement: The system expects a template for the data structure, but none has been specified. This can happen when creating or modifying data structures that require a predefined format.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the RSM221 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check InfoObject Definition:
  
  Go to the InfoObject maintenance transaction (e.g., RSD1).
  Ensure that all required fields have a specified length. For example, if you are defining a characteristic, make sure that the length of the characteristic is defined correctly.
  
  
  
  Review DataSource Configuration:
  
  If the error occurs during the extraction process, check the DataSource configuration in the Data Warehousing Workbench (transaction RSA1).
  Ensure that all fields in the DataSource have appropriate lengths defined.
  
  
  
  Use Templates:
  
  If the error indicates a missing template, check if there are any templates available for the data structure you are working with. You may need to create or select an appropriate template that matches the expected format.
  
  
  
  Check for Updates:
  
  Ensure that your SAP system is up to date with the latest support packages and notes, as some issues may have been resolved in newer versions.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on the object or process you are working with. This can provide insights into required fields and configurations.
  
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Community:
  
  If the issue persists, consider reaching out to the SAP Community or forums for additional support. Other users may have encountered similar issues and can provide solutions.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as RSD1 (InfoObject maintenance), RSA1 (Data Warehousing Workbench), and RSMO (Monitor Data Load).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues related to the error message RSM221. You can search for notes in the SAP Support Portal.
  SAP Help Portal: Utilize the SAP Help Portal for detailed documentation on InfoObjects, DataSources, and data modeling in SAP BW.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the RSM221 error and implement the necessary corrections to resolve it.