How To Fix SRM_REFGEN018 - Parts of the unique ID already saved for rule &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SRM_REFGEN -

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Parts of the unique ID already saved for rule &1

What causes this issue?

You want to edit a rule definition for which a reference has already
been generated. Parts for this reference have already been saved in the
database. These parts may need to be analyzed later.
These saved parts can usually be analyzed only if the rule definition is
not changed after the reference is generated.

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?

Do not change a rule definition if parts of the reference have already
been saved to the database.
Adding, deleting, and renaming rule elements can make saved parts of
generated reference unusable.

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 SRM_REFGEN018 - Parts of the unique ID already saved for rule &1 ?

  The SAP error message SRM_REFGEN018 indicates that there is an issue with the unique ID for a rule in the SAP Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) system. Specifically, it means that parts of the unique ID you are trying to save have already been saved for the specified rule. This typically occurs when there is an attempt to create or modify a rule that conflicts with existing entries.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Entries: The unique ID you are trying to use is already associated with another rule or entry in the system.
  Incorrect Configuration: There may be a misconfiguration in the way rules are defined or managed within the SRM system.
  Data Integrity Issues: There could be issues with data integrity, where the system is not able to recognize the uniqueness of the ID due to inconsistencies.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Existing Rules: Review the existing rules in the system to identify if the unique ID you are trying to use is already in use. You can do this by navigating to the relevant configuration area in SRM.
  Modify Unique ID: If the unique ID is already in use, consider modifying it to ensure it is unique. This may involve changing the naming convention or adding additional identifiers.
  Delete or Archive Old Rules: If the existing rule is no longer needed, you may consider deleting or archiving it to free up the unique ID.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on managing unique IDs and rules in SRM.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance. They may provide insights based on system logs or configurations.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes in SAP SRM that allow you to manage rules and configurations.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to SRM_REFGEN018 for additional context or patches that may address the issue.
  User Roles and Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to create or modify rules in the SRM system, as insufficient permissions can sometimes lead to unexpected errors.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the SRM_REFGEN018 error and successfully manage your rules in the SAP SRM system.