How To Fix WER280 - The item must be set in order to set the key field

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WER - Messages for the package WER

• Message number: 280

• Message text: The item must be set in order to set the key field

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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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WER280 - The item must be set in order to set the key field ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WER280 - The item must be set in order to set the key field
  
  Cause:
  This error typically occurs when you are trying to set or modify a key field in a table or structure without first specifying or setting the corresponding item or parent field that the key depends on. In SAP, certain key fields are dependent on other fields (often called "item" fields), and these must be populated before you can assign or change the key field.
  For example, in sales documents or purchase documents, line item numbers or sub-item numbers are often dependent on the header or main item being set first. If you try to set a key field (like a line item number) without first setting the item number or header, SAP throws this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Set the Parent Item First:
  
  Ensure that the parent or item field (e.g., the main item number or header field) is set before you attempt to set the key field. This means you need to populate the item field in your code or data entry before assigning the key.
  
  
  Check the Sequence of Data Entry:
  
  Review the sequence in which you are filling the fields. The item field must be assigned before the key field.
  
  
  Debugging:  
  
  Use the debugger to check the values of the fields involved when the error occurs.
  Verify that the item field is not initial or empty before the key field is set.
  
  
  
  Review Custom Code or User Exits:
  
  If this error occurs in a custom program or enhancement, check the logic where the key fields are set. Make sure the item fields are assigned properly before the key fields.
  
  
  Check Table or Structure Definitions:
  
  Sometimes, the error can be due to incorrect handling of table keys or structures. Verify the table definitions and ensure that the key fields are handled in the correct order.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  This error is common in modules like SD (Sales and Distribution), MM (Materials Management), and FI (Financial Accounting) where document items and sub-items are used.
  The message is triggered by the SAP standard function modules or BAPIs that enforce data consistency.
  SAP Note or documentation related to the specific module or transaction might provide additional insights if the error occurs in standard SAP transactions.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  Cause: Trying to set a key field without first setting the required item field.
  Solution: Set the item field before setting the key field; check the sequence of data assignment.
  Check: Debug and review custom code or enhancements for correct field assignment order.
  
  
  If you provide the context (transaction, module, or program) where this error occurs, I can help with more specific guidance.