How To Fix /SMB/CENTRALDATA028 - Variant &1 does not exist and therefore cannot be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SMB/CENTRALDATA -

• Message number: 028

• Message text: Variant &1 does not exist and therefore cannot be deleted

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SMB/CENTRALDATA028 - Variant &1 does not exist and therefore cannot be deleted ?

  The SAP error message /SMB/CENTRALDATA028 indicates that a specific variant (identified by &1) does not exist in the system, and therefore, it cannot be deleted. This error typically occurs when you attempt to delete a variant that has either been removed or never existed in the first place.
  Cause:
  
  Non-Existent Variant: The variant you are trying to delete may have already been deleted or never created.
  Incorrect Variant Name: There might be a typo or incorrect naming in the variant you are trying to delete.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to view or delete the variant.
  Data Consistency Issues: There may be inconsistencies in the database or application layer that prevent the system from recognizing the variant.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Verify Variant Existence:
  
  Check if the variant actually exists in the system. You can do this by navigating to the relevant transaction (e.g., SE38 for ABAP programs) and checking the variants associated with the program.
  Use transaction SE38 or SA38 to display the program and check the variants.
  
  
  
  Correct the Variant Name:
  
  Ensure that you are using the correct name for the variant. Double-check for any typos or incorrect characters.
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to delete the variant. You may need to consult with your SAP security team to verify your permissions.
  
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes:
  
  If you are using a specific transaction code to delete the variant, ensure that you are following the correct procedure. Sometimes, using the wrong transaction can lead to such errors.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes:
  
  Check for any relevant SAP Notes or documentation that might address this specific error. SAP Notes can provide insights into known issues and their resolutions.
  
  
  
  Database Consistency Check:
  
  If you suspect data consistency issues, you may need to run consistency checks or consult with your SAP Basis team to investigate any underlying database issues.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists and you cannot find a resolution, consider reaching out to SAP Support for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: SE38 (ABAP Editor), SA38 (Execute Program), SE93 (Transaction Codes).
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to variant management and deletion processes.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and take appropriate action to resolve it.