How To Fix SALV_X_API086 - The grouping key specified for column &1 is empty

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SALV_X_API - Messages for ALV API exceptions

• Message number: 086

• Message text: The grouping key specified for column &1 is empty

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SALV_X_API086 - The grouping key specified for column &1 is empty ?

  The SAP error message SALV_X_API086 indicates that there is an issue with the grouping key specified for a column in an ALV (ABAP List Viewer) report. Specifically, it means that the grouping key for the specified column is empty, which can prevent the ALV from properly grouping the data as intended.
  Cause:
  
  Empty Grouping Key: The most common cause of this error is that the grouping key for the specified column has not been defined or is empty. This can happen if the data source does not provide a value for the grouping key or if the key is not set correctly in the ALV configuration.
  Incorrect Configuration: The ALV configuration may not have been set up correctly, leading to an empty grouping key.
  Data Issues: The underlying data may not contain the necessary values for the grouping key, resulting in an empty key.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Grouping Key Definition: Ensure that the grouping key for the specified column is defined correctly in your ALV configuration. You can do this by reviewing the code where the ALV is set up and ensuring that the grouping key is assigned properly.
  Example:
  DATA: lo_alv TYPE REF TO cl_salv_table.
  lo_alv->set_grouping( ... ).  " Ensure the grouping key is set correctly
  
  
  Verify Data Source: Check the data source that is being used for the ALV report. Make sure that the data being fetched contains valid values for the grouping key. If the data is coming from a database table or a structure, ensure that the relevant fields are populated.
  
  
  Debugging: If the issue persists, you can debug the ALV report to see what values are being passed to the grouping key. This can help identify if the issue is with the data or the configuration.
  
  
  Fallback Handling: If it is acceptable for your application, consider implementing fallback handling for cases where the grouping key might be empty. This could involve providing a default value or skipping the grouping for that column.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  ALV Documentation: Review the SAP documentation on ALV and the specific methods related to grouping. This can provide insights into how to properly configure grouping keys.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional guidance on handling grouping keys in ALV reports.
  Community Forums: Consider searching or posting in SAP community forums or platforms like SAP Community, Stack Overflow, or SAP Tech Community for additional insights from other developers who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error message SALV_X_API086 and ensure that your ALV report functions as intended.