How To Fix TD217 - Character string & already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: TD - SAPscript: Text editor, composer, forms, styles and fonts

• Message number: 217

• Message text: Character string & already exists

What causes this issue?

You attempted to create a character string which already exists.

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?

Please select a character string tag not yet used in the style as the
identification code for a new character string.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message TD217 - Character string & already exists ?

  The SAP error message TD217 ("Character string & already exists") typically occurs when you are trying to create or modify a text element (like a text ID or a text object) in the SAP system, and the character string you are attempting to use already exists in the system. This can happen in various contexts, such as when working with text elements in customizing, documentation, or other areas where text strings are defined.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Entry: The most common cause of this error is that the character string you are trying to create or modify already exists in the system. This could be due to a previous entry that was not deleted or modified properly.
  Incorrect Configuration: Sometimes, the error can arise from incorrect configuration settings or attempts to create entries that conflict with existing ones.
  Transport Issues: If you are working in a transport environment, there may be inconsistencies between the development, quality, and production systems.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Existing Entries: Before creating a new text element, check if the character string already exists. You can do this by navigating to the relevant transaction (like SE11 for data dictionary objects or SE78 for SAPscript forms) and searching for the string.
  Modify or Delete Existing Entry: If you find that the character string already exists and you need to make changes, consider modifying the existing entry instead of creating a new one. If the existing entry is no longer needed, you may delete it.
  Use a Different String: If the existing entry is valid and you cannot modify it, consider using a different character string that does not conflict with existing entries.
  Transport Management: If you suspect that the issue is related to transport inconsistencies, ensure that all transports are correctly imported and that the systems are synchronized.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on where you encounter this error, you may use various transaction codes to investigate:
  
  SE11: Data Dictionary
  SE78: SAPscript forms
  SE78: SAPscript forms
  SE63: Translation tools
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to text elements and their management to understand the context in which you are working.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis or development team for further assistance, as they may have additional tools or insights to resolve the issue.