How To Fix SQADB040 - The question already has an externally assigned number

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SQADB - Question and Answer Database Messages

• Message number: 040

• Message text: The question already has an externally assigned number

What causes this issue?

You want to assign an internal number to a question, but it already has
a valid number, so no internal number is assigned.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SQADB040 - The question already has an externally assigned number ?

  The SAP error message SQADB040, which states "The question already has an externally assigned number," typically occurs in the context of SAP's Quality Management (QM) or similar modules where questions or issues are being tracked and managed. This error indicates that the system is trying to assign an external number to a question that has already been assigned one, leading to a conflict.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Assignment: The most common cause of this error is an attempt to assign an external number to a question that has already been assigned one. This can happen if the same question is being processed multiple times or if there is a misunderstanding in the workflow.
  Data Integrity Issues: There may be issues with data integrity in the database, where the system does not recognize that the question has already been assigned an external number.
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration settings in the SAP system related to question management or external numbering could lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Existing Assignments: Verify if the question in question already has an externally assigned number. You can do this by checking the relevant database tables or using transaction codes that allow you to view question details.
  Avoid Duplicate Processing: Ensure that the same question is not being processed multiple times. Implement checks in your workflow to prevent this from happening.
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings related to question management and external numbering in your SAP system. Ensure that they are set up correctly to avoid conflicts.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on handling this error in your version of SAP.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot find a resolution, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance. They may provide patches or updates that address this issue.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that can help you manage questions and issues in SAP, such as QM01 (Create Quality Notification) or QM02 (Change Quality Notification).
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message. SAP frequently releases notes that address known issues and provide solutions or workarounds.
  User Forums: Engage with SAP user forums or communities where other users may have encountered and resolved similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the SQADB040 error in your SAP system.