How To Fix SBDS020 - Error in creating a relationship. Document is not unique

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SBDS - Message Class: Business Document Service

• Message number: 020

• Message text: Error in creating a relationship. Document is not unique

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SBDS020 - Error in creating a relationship. Document is not unique ?

  The SAP error message SBDS020, which states "Error in creating a relationship. Document is not unique," typically occurs in the context of SAP Business Document Services (BDS) when there is an attempt to create a relationship between documents, but the system finds multiple documents that match the criteria, leading to ambiguity.
  Cause:
  
  
  Non-Unique Document Identification: The error usually arises when the system encounters multiple documents that match the criteria for the relationship being created. This can happen if:
  
  There are duplicate documents in the system.
  The criteria used to identify the document are not specific enough, leading to multiple matches.
  
  
  
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration settings for document relationships may not be set up correctly, leading to issues in identifying unique documents.
  
  
  Data Integrity Issues: There may be underlying data integrity issues, such as incorrect or incomplete metadata associated with the documents.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check for Duplicates: 
  
  Review the documents in the system to identify any duplicates. You can use transaction codes like SBD1 or SBD2 to view and manage documents.
  If duplicates are found, consider consolidating or deleting unnecessary duplicates.
  
  
  
  Refine Search Criteria: 
  
  Ensure that the criteria used to create the relationship are specific enough to uniquely identify the document. This may involve adding additional filters or parameters.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration: 
  
  Check the configuration settings for document relationships in the SAP system. Ensure that the settings are correctly defined to avoid ambiguity in document identification.
  
  
  
  Data Cleanup: 
  
  Perform a data cleanup to ensure that all documents have unique identifiers and that their metadata is complete and accurate.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: 
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on managing document relationships and resolving issues related to document uniqueness.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: 
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. They may provide insights specific to your system configuration and data.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SBD1, SBD2, and SBD3 for managing documents and relationships.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to the SBDS020 error for additional troubleshooting steps or patches that may address the issue.
  Documentation: Review the SAP Help Portal for detailed information on Business Document Services and document management best practices.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the SBDS020 error and implement a solution to resolve it.