How To Fix /SMB/UTILITY071 - Variant ID must not be initial

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SMB/UTILITY -

• Message number: 071

• Message text: Variant ID must not be initial

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SMB/UTILITY071 - Variant ID must not be initial ?

  The SAP error message /SMB/UTILITY071 Variant ID must not be initial typically occurs when a required variant ID is not provided in a transaction or program that expects it. This error is common in scenarios where users are trying to execute reports or programs that utilize variants for parameter settings.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when:
  
  A user attempts to run a report or transaction that requires a variant ID, but the variant ID field is left blank (initial).
  The program or transaction is designed to fetch data or settings based on a specific variant, and without it, the execution cannot proceed.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check the Input Fields: Ensure that you have entered a valid variant ID in the appropriate field. If you are unsure of the variant ID, you can use the search help (F4) to find available variants.
  
  
  Create a Variant: If you do not have a variant created yet, you can create one:
  
  Go to the transaction or report where you encountered the error.
  Enter the selection criteria you want to save.
  Click on the "Save" button (often represented by a disk icon) to create a new variant.
  Provide a name for the variant and save it.
  
  
  
  Use an Existing Variant: If you have previously created variants, select one from the list instead of leaving the field blank.
  
  
  Check User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to access the variants. Sometimes, lack of permissions can lead to issues in retrieving or using variants.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If the error persists, refer to the documentation for the specific transaction or program you are using. There may be additional requirements or settings that need to be configured.
  
  
  Contact Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting the SAP community for further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error can occur in various transaction codes that utilize variants, such as report execution transactions (e.g., SE38 for ABAP programs).
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional context.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to create and manage variants effectively to avoid this error in the future.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the /SMB/UTILITY071 Variant ID must not be initial error and successfully execute the desired transaction or report.