How To Fix /SAPAPO/MAT171 - Specify a period type

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/MAT -

• Message number: 171

• Message text: Specify a period type

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.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/MAT171 - Specify a period type ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/MAT171 Specify a period type typically occurs in the context of SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) when a user is trying to execute a function that requires a specific period type to be defined, but it has not been provided.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Period Type: The most common cause of this error is that the user has not specified a period type in the selection screen or input parameters of the transaction or report they are trying to execute.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration issues in the APO system that prevent the period type from being recognized or set correctly.
  User Input Error: The user may have overlooked the requirement to select a period type or may have selected an invalid option.
  
  Solution:
  
  Specify a Period Type: When you encounter this error, check the input fields on the selection screen or the parameters of the transaction you are executing. Look for a field labeled "Period Type" and ensure that you select a valid option from the dropdown list.
  Review Documentation: If you are unsure which period types are valid, refer to the SAP documentation or help files related to the specific transaction or report you are using.
  Check Configuration: If the period type is not available or if you suspect a configuration issue, consult with your SAP Basis or APO configuration team to ensure that the period types are correctly set up in the system.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on the importance of specifying a period type and how to do so correctly in the relevant transactions.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error may occur in various APO-related transactions, such as those related to planning, forecasting, or reporting.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance on period types in APO.
  SAP Community: Consider searching or posting in the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered and resolved similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the /SAPAPO/MAT171 Specify a period type error and proceed with your tasks in SAP APO.