How To Fix /SMB/UTILITY045 - The new variant &1 cannot be created, already exists. Edit existing

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SMB/UTILITY -

• Message number: 045

• Message text: The new variant &1 cannot be created, already exists. Edit existing

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/UTILITY045 - The new variant &1 cannot be created, already exists. Edit existing ?

  The SAP error message /SMB/UTILITY045 indicates that you are trying to create a new variant (for example, a report variant) that already exists in the system. This typically occurs when you attempt to save a variant with a name that is already in use.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Variant Name: The most common cause is that the variant name you are trying to create already exists in the system.
  User Authorization: In some cases, the user may not have the necessary authorization to create a new variant, leading to confusion if the variant already exists.
  System Configuration: There may be specific configurations or settings in the system that prevent the creation of new variants under certain conditions.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Edit Existing Variant: The error message suggests that you can edit the existing variant instead of creating a new one. You can do this by:
  
  Navigating to the variant management screen.
  Searching for the existing variant by its name.
  Making the necessary changes to the existing variant.
  
  
  
  Choose a Different Name: If you need a new variant, consider using a different name that does not conflict with existing variants.
  
  
  Check Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to create or modify variants. If you suspect an authorization issue, contact your SAP security administrator.
  
  
  Review System Settings: If the issue persists, review the system settings or configurations related to variant management. There may be specific rules or restrictions in place.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You can use transaction codes like SE38 (ABAP Editor) or SA38 (Execute Program) to access the program where the variant is being created.
  Variant Management: Familiarize yourself with the variant management features in SAP, which can be accessed through the menu path: System -> User Profile -> Own Data -> Variants.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional context.
  
  If the problem continues after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.