How To Fix SV156 - Specify a variant name

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SV - View Maintenance: Customize Messages

• Message number: 156

• Message text: Specify a variant name

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 SV156 - Specify a variant name ?

  The SAP error message SV156 "Specify a variant name" typically occurs when you are trying to execute a report or transaction that requires a variant, but you have not specified one. Variants in SAP are used to save specific settings for reports or transactions, allowing users to execute them with predefined parameters.
  Cause:
  The error arises when:
  
  You attempt to run a report or transaction that requires a variant, but you have not entered a variant name.
  The system expects a variant to be specified for the execution of the report or transaction.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the SV156 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Specify a Variant Name:
  
  When prompted for a variant, enter a valid variant name that has been previously created for the report or transaction you are trying to execute.
  If you do not have a variant, you may need to create one.
  
  
  
  Create a New Variant:
  
  If you need to create a new variant, you can usually do this by:
  
  Running the report or transaction.
  Entering the required selection criteria.
  Clicking on the "Save as Variant" button (often represented by a disk icon or similar).
  Providing a name for the variant and saving it.
  
  
  
  
  
  Check for Existing Variants:
  
  You can check if there are existing variants by using the variant selection option (often accessible via a button or dropdown next to the variant field).
  Select an existing variant if it meets your needs.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the required parameters for the variant, consult the documentation for the specific report or transaction you are using.
  
  
  
  User Permissions:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to create or use variants. If you do not have the required authorizations, contact your SAP administrator.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error can occur in various transaction codes that utilize variants, such as SE38 (ABAP Editor) or SA38 (Execute Report).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific issues related to the report or transaction you are using, as there may be known issues or patches available.
  User Training: If you are new to SAP, consider undergoing training on how to use variants effectively, as this is a common feature in many SAP reports.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the SV156 error and successfully execute the desired report or transaction.