How To Fix SMARTFORMS422 - Variant &1: Create/Delete/Rename is only allowed in the main variant

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SMARTFORMS - Smart Forms - Form Builder

• Message number: 422

• Message text: Variant &1: Create/Delete/Rename is only allowed in the main variant

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 SMARTFORMS422 - Variant &1: Create/Delete/Rename is only allowed in the main variant ?

  The SAP error message SMARTFORMS422 indicates that you are trying to create, delete, or rename a variant of a Smart Form, but this action is only permitted for the main variant of the Smart Form. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, solution, and related information for this error:
  Cause:
  
  Variant Restrictions: In SAP Smart Forms, variants are used to manage different configurations of the same form. However, certain operations (like creating, deleting, or renaming) are restricted to the main variant. This is a design choice to prevent inconsistencies and maintain the integrity of the main form.
  Incorrect Context: You may be attempting to perform the operation on a sub-variant or a variant that is not the main one.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Use the Main Variant: To resolve this error, ensure that you are working with the main variant of the Smart Form. You can do this by:
  
  Navigating to the Smart Form in transaction SMARTFORMS.
  Selecting the main variant (usually named the same as the Smart Form).
  Performing the create, delete, or rename operation on this main variant.
  
  
  
  Check Variant Settings: If you need to manage variants, ensure you are aware of which variant you are currently working on. You can check the variant settings in the Smart Forms interface.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about how to manage variants, refer to the SAP documentation or help resources related to Smart Forms for more detailed guidance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Smart Forms Overview: Smart Forms is a tool in SAP that allows users to create and maintain forms for print layout. It is more user-friendly than SAPscript and provides a graphical interface.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  SMARTFORMS: To create or modify Smart Forms.
  SE71: For SAPscript forms, which may have different variant management.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to Smart Forms and variants that might provide additional insights or updates regarding this error.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the SMARTFORMS422 error and manage your Smart Form variants effectively.