How To Fix SD173 - Includes may not be documented

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SD - Online doc., terminology, translation, help

• Message number: 173

• Message text: Includes may not be documented

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 SD173 - Includes may not be documented ?

  The SAP error message SD173 ("Includes may not be documented") typically occurs in the context of SAP SD (Sales and Distribution) when there is an attempt to document or create documentation for an include program or function module that is not allowed. This is a common restriction in SAP to maintain the integrity and stability of the system.
  Cause:
  
  Include Programs: In SAP, include programs are used to modularize code. They are not standalone programs and are meant to be included in other programs or function modules. As such, they do not have their own documentation.
  Documentation Restrictions: SAP restricts the documentation of includes to prevent confusion and maintain clarity in the documentation process. This is because includes are often reused across multiple programs, and documenting them separately could lead to inconsistencies.
  
  Solution:
  
  Avoid Documenting Includes: If you encounter this error, the solution is to refrain from trying to document the include program. Instead, focus on documenting the main program or function module that includes it.
  Document Main Programs: Ensure that the main programs or function modules that utilize the include are well-documented. This will provide clarity on how the includes are being used without attempting to document the includes themselves.
  Check for Updates: If you believe this error is occurring inappropriately, check for any SAP Notes or updates that may address this issue. Sometimes, specific versions of SAP may have bugs or changes that affect how documentation is handled.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation Standards: Familiarize yourself with SAP's documentation standards and guidelines to understand what can and cannot be documented.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community or forums where other users may have encountered similar issues. They can provide insights or workarounds based on their experiences.
  SAP Notes: Regularly check SAP Notes for any updates or patches that may address issues related to documentation and includes.
  
  If you continue to face challenges or if this error is impacting your work significantly, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.