How To Fix /SAPAPO/MCPSH_SEL018 - The selection description already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/MCPSH_SEL -

• Message number: 018

• Message text: The selection description already exists

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/MCPSH_SEL018 - The selection description already exists ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/MCPSH_SEL018 indicates that there is an attempt to create or modify a selection description in the SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) module, but a selection description with the same name already exists. This can occur in various contexts, such as when working with planning books, data views, or selection profiles.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is that the system is trying to create a new selection description with a name that is already in use. This can happen if:
  
  You are trying to create a new selection description with a duplicate name.
  There is a naming conflict due to a previous creation or modification that was not properly handled.
  The selection description was not deleted or renamed before attempting to create a new one.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Selection Descriptions:
  
  Navigate to the relevant transaction or area in SAP where selection descriptions are managed (e.g., transaction /SAPAPO/MCPSH).
  Look for the existing selection descriptions and verify if the name you are trying to use is already taken.
  
  
  
  Rename or Delete:
  
  If you find that the selection description already exists and you want to keep it, consider renaming your new selection description to something unique.
  If the existing selection description is no longer needed, you can delete it. Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to perform this action.
  
  
  
  Use a Unique Naming Convention:
  
  To avoid future conflicts, establish a naming convention for selection descriptions that includes unique identifiers (e.g., project names, dates, or user initials).
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources for more information on managing selection descriptions in APO.
  
  
  
  Check for System Issues:
  
  If you believe there should not be a conflict, check for any system issues or inconsistencies. Sometimes, a system refresh or transport might lead to unexpected behavior.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes in SAP APO, such as /SAPAPO/MCPSH for managing selection descriptions.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to create, modify, or delete selection descriptions in the system.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and successfully manage your selection descriptions in SAP APO.