How To Fix VW516 - Field '&1'(&2-&3) cannot be maintained in general

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VW - Shipment Processing Output

• Message number: 516

• Message text: Field '&1'(&2-&3) cannot be maintained in general

What causes this issue?

You have tried to change a field that cannot be changed by a user.
There are several possible reasons for this:
It is a field defined by the system (for example, a client)
It is a field determined by the system (for example, shipment number,
overall status, settlement or calculation status)
The field contains administrative data determined by the system (for
example, date, time, user for creating/changing)

System Response

How to fix this error?

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

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 VW516 - Field '&1'(&2-&3) cannot be maintained in general ?

  The SAP error message VW516 indicates that a specific field (denoted by &1) cannot be maintained in the context of the transaction or operation you are trying to perform. The message typically includes additional information about the field and its context, represented by &2 and &3.
  Cause:
  The error can occur due to several reasons, including:
  
  
  Field Configuration: The field may not be configured to be editable in the current context. This could be due to settings in the configuration of the relevant module (e.g., Sales and Distribution, Material Management).
  
  
  User Authorizations: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to edit the field. This can be checked in the user roles and authorizations assigned to the user.
  
  
  Data Status: The data status of the document or record you are trying to edit may not allow changes. For example, if the document is already processed or in a status that prohibits changes.
  
  
  Field Dependencies: The field may depend on other fields or conditions that are not met, making it non-editable.
  
  
  Custom Logic: There may be custom logic (user exits, BAdIs, etc.) that restricts the maintenance of the field based on certain conditions.
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the VW516 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Field Configuration: Review the configuration settings for the field in the relevant module. Ensure that the field is set to be editable in the context you are working in.
  
  
  Review User Authorizations: Check the user roles and authorizations to ensure that the user has the necessary permissions to edit the field. You may need to consult with your SAP security team.
  
  
  Verify Document Status: Check the status of the document or record you are trying to edit. If it is in a status that does not allow changes, you may need to change the status or create a new record.
  
  
  Check Dependencies: Ensure that any dependent fields or conditions are met. If the field is dependent on other fields, make sure those fields are correctly filled out.
  
  
  Consult Custom Logic: If there are any custom enhancements or logic in place, review them to see if they are causing the field to be non-editable. You may need to involve a developer or consultant familiar with the custom code.
  
  
  SAP Notes and Documentation: Search for relevant SAP Notes or documentation that may provide additional insights or solutions related to this error message.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may be using transaction codes like VA01 (Create Sales Order), VA02 (Change Sales Order), etc.
  Field Names: The specific field name and context will be crucial in diagnosing the issue. Make sure to note the exact field and its purpose.
  SAP Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance, especially if it seems to be a system-wide issue or bug.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the VW516 error and implement a solution.