How To Fix VN381 - Incompatible change of partner function from '&' to '&'!

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VN - Nachrichtensteuerung

• Message number: 381

• Message text: Incompatible change of partner function from '&' to '&'!

What causes this issue?

The partner function was changed for an existing MESSAGE object with at
least one assigned recipient. The changed partner function does not
correspond to the first assigned recipient of the recipient list.

System Response

The system does not accept the change made to the partner function.

How to fix this error?

If an object exists with at least one assigned partner, the partner
function can only be changed to a value that is linked to the same
partner function as the source partner function. You have three
options:
Reset the partner function.
Assign a partner for the changed partner function by choosing possible
entries.
Branch to "Communication" and assign a partner with a different partner
type. The relevant partner function will be returned.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message VN381 - Incompatible change of partner function from '&' to '&'! ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation for the SAP error message VN381: Incompatible change of partner function from '&' to '&':
  
  SAP Error Message: VN381
  Text: Incompatible change of partner function from '&' to '&'!
  
  Cause
  This error occurs when you try to change the partner function in a purchasing document (such as a Purchase Order or Contract) from one partner function to another incompatible partner function. SAP enforces certain rules about partner functions in purchasing documents to maintain data consistency and business logic integrity.
  For example, if a partner function is initially set as "Ordering Address" (WE), and you try to change it to "Invoicing Party" (RI) or any other partner function that is not allowed to replace the original one, the system throws this error.
  The key reasons include:
  
  The partner function you are trying to change to is not compatible with the original partner function.
  The partner function is fixed or controlled by the document type or vendor master data.
  The change violates the business rules configured in the system for partner determination.
  
  
  Solution
  To resolve this error, consider the following steps:
  
  
  Check the Partner Functions:
  
  Review the partner functions involved in the document.
  Verify if the partner function you want to change to is allowed in the document type and vendor master.
  
  
  
  Use Correct Partner Function:
  
  Instead of changing the existing partner function, add a new partner with the desired partner function if the business process requires it.
  If you need to replace a partner, delete the old partner and add a new one with the correct partner function, if allowed.
  
  
  
  Review Partner Determination Procedure:
  
  Check the partner determination procedure assigned to the purchasing document type.
  Ensure that the partner functions are correctly configured and allowed to be changed or replaced.
  
  
  
  Check Vendor Master Data:
  
  Sometimes, the vendor master data restricts certain partner functions.
  Verify if the vendor master data allows the partner function you want to assign.
  
  
  
  Consult Customizing:
  
  In SPRO, under Materials Management ? Purchasing ? Partner Determination, review the partner determination procedures and partner functions.
  Adjust the configuration if necessary, but only after confirming business requirements.
  
  
  
  Avoid Direct Changes if Not Allowed:
  
  If the system does not allow changing the partner function directly, follow the standard process of deleting and re-adding partners or creating a new document with the correct partner functions.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  ME21N / ME22N / ME23N (Purchase Order)
  ME31K / ME32K / ME33K (Contract)
  XK03 (Display Vendor Master)
  SPRO (Customizing)
  
  
  
  SAP Notes:
  
  Check SAP Notes related to partner functions and purchasing documents for any known issues or patches.
  
  
  
  Partner Functions in MM:
  
  Common partner functions include Ordering Address (WE), Invoicing Party (RI), Goods Supplier (LF), etc.
  Each partner function has a specific role and is controlled by the partner determination procedure.
  
  
  
  Partner Determination Procedure:
  
  Defines which partner functions are mandatory, optional, or prohibited.
  Controls the allowed changes to partner functions in purchasing documents.
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the exact scenario or document type, I can help you with more specific guidance.