How To Fix SPPF_CUST021 - Selection only possible using the search help.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SPPF_CUST - PPF: Customizing Messages

• Message number: 021

• Message text: Selection only possible using the search help.

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 SPPF_CUST021 - Selection only possible using the search help. ?

  The SAP error message SPPF_CUST021 indicates that a selection can only be made using the search help. This typically occurs in the context of customizing or configuration within SAP, particularly when dealing with fields that are linked to search helps (F4 help) in the system.
  Cause:
  The error arises when:
  
  You are trying to enter a value in a field that is configured to only accept values from a predefined list (search help).
  The field is set up in such a way that it does not allow free text entry, and the system expects you to use the search help to select a valid entry.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Use the Search Help:
  
  Click on the field that is causing the error and press the F4 key or click on the search help icon (usually a small magnifying glass).
  This will open a dialog where you can search for and select a valid entry from the list.
  
  
  
  Check Field Configuration:
  
  If you are a developer or have access to configuration settings, check the field's configuration in the relevant customizing transaction (e.g., SPRO).
  Ensure that the field is correctly set up to use the appropriate search help.
  
  
  
  Review User Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to access the search help and the values it provides.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the values that should be selected, refer to the documentation or help texts associated with the field.
  
  
  
  Contact Support:
  
  If the issue persists and you believe it is a system error, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Search Help: In SAP, search helps are used to provide users with a list of valid entries for a field. They can be standard or custom-defined.
  Field Attributes: The attributes of fields can be defined in the Data Dictionary (SE11) where you can see if a field is linked to a search help.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE80 (Object Navigator), and SPRO (Customizing) for further investigation.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the SPPF_CUST021 error and successfully make your selection in the SAP system.