How To Fix /SMB/DEFINITION016 - Field definition &1 with reference &2 already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SMB/DEFINITION -

• Message number: 016

• Message text: Field definition &1 with reference &2 already exists

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SMB/DEFINITION016 - Field definition &1 with reference &2 already exists ?

  The SAP error message /SMB/DEFINITION016 indicates that there is a conflict in field definitions within the system. Specifically, it means that a field definition with the specified name (denoted as &1) already exists for the reference (denoted as &2). This typically occurs in the context of customizing or configuring fields in SAP Business One or similar SAP applications.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Field Definition: The most common cause of this error is that a field with the same name has already been defined in the system. This can happen if you are trying to create a new field that has the same name as an existing one.
  Incorrect Configuration: Sometimes, this error can arise from incorrect configuration settings or attempts to import definitions that conflict with existing ones.
  Transport Issues: If you are transporting changes from one system to another (e.g., from development to production), there may be conflicts if the same field definitions exist in both systems.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Definitions: 
  
  Go to the relevant configuration area in SAP where field definitions are managed.
  Search for the field name (&1) to see if it already exists. If it does, you may need to modify or delete the existing field before creating a new one.
  
  
  
  Rename the New Field: If the existing field is necessary and cannot be deleted, consider renaming the new field you are trying to create to avoid the conflict.
  
  
  Review Transport Requests: If this error occurred during a transport, review the transport requests to ensure that there are no conflicting definitions being transported. You may need to adjust the transport or resolve conflicts manually.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Check SAP documentation or notes related to field definitions for any specific guidelines or best practices that may help in resolving the issue.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue through the above steps, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance. They may provide insights specific to your system configuration.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Field Definitions: Understanding how field definitions work in SAP is crucial. Familiarize yourself with the data dictionary and how fields are created and managed.
  SAP Notes: Look for SAP Notes related to this error message for any patches or updates that may address known issues.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement a suitable solution.