How To Fix W5046 - Please first complete global data

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: W5 - Messages for MM-WEB Applications and BAPIs

• Message number: 046

• Message text: Please first complete global data

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W5046 - Please first complete global data ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  W5046 Please first complete global data
  
  Cause:
  This warning message typically appears in SAP when you are trying to proceed with a transaction or save data, but some mandatory "global data" fields have not been completed. "Global data" refers to essential master data or header-level information that must be entered before you can continue with item-level or detailed entries.
  For example, in modules like Sales and Distribution (SD), Materials Management (MM), or Plant Maintenance (PM), certain header or global data fields are required to be filled out before you can proceed with line items or further processing.
  
  Common Scenarios:
  
  In Sales Order Processing (VA01/VA02), if you try to enter item details without completing the header data such as Sold-to Party, Sales Organization, Distribution Channel, or Division.
  In Material Master or Vendor Master, if mandatory global fields are missing.
  In Maintenance Orders or Notifications, if header data is incomplete.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Complete the Global Data First:
  
  Review the screen and identify the mandatory global or header fields that are incomplete. These fields are usually marked with a check or asterisk (*) or highlighted by the system.
  
  
  Check for Mandatory Fields:  
  
  Look for fields like customer/vendor number, sales organization, plant, order type, or any other header-level data.
  Fill in all required fields before proceeding.
  
  
  
  Use F1 Help:
  
  Place the cursor on the field and press F1 to get detailed information about the field and why it might be mandatory.
  
  
  Check Configuration (if applicable):
  
  If you are a system administrator or consultant, verify the configuration in IMG (Implementation Guide) to ensure that the mandatory fields are correctly set up.
  
  
  Save After Completing Global Data:
  
  Once all mandatory global data is entered, try saving or proceeding again.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Message Class: W5046 is a warning message, so it does not stop the transaction but advises the user to complete necessary data.
  Transaction Codes: Common in VA01, VA02, ME21N, IW31, etc.
  SAP Notes: If the message appears unexpectedly or you believe all data is complete, check SAP Notes or OSS for any known issues related to this message.
  User Training: Ensure users understand the importance of completing header/global data before entering item details.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  Cause: Mandatory global/header data fields are incomplete.
  Solution: Fill in all required global data fields before proceeding.
  Tip: Use F1 help and check configuration if needed.
  
  
  If you provide the specific transaction or module where you encounter this message, I can give more tailored advice.