How To Fix WRF_PRC_BAS021 - Variant & is old and can no longer be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WRF_PRC_BAS - General Purchasing, Seasonal Procurement Messages

• Message number: 021

• Message text: Variant & is old and can no longer be deleted

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 WRF_PRC_BAS021 - Variant & is old and can no longer be deleted ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WRF_PRC_BAS021 Variant & is old and can no longer be deleted
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs when you try to delete a variant in SAP that is considered "old" or obsolete by the system. Variants in SAP are used to save input values for reports or transactions, and over time, some variants may become outdated or linked to objects that no longer exist or have changed significantly.
  Specifically, the system prevents deletion of such variants because:
  
  The variant is linked to a process or object that has been updated or replaced.
  The variant is part of a standard or system-defined set that should not be deleted.
  The variant is flagged as "old" or "obsolete" in the system, possibly due to versioning or lifecycle management rules.
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this issue, you can try the following steps:
  
  
  Check Variant Usage:
  
  Verify if the variant is currently assigned to any scheduled jobs, process chains, or other automated processes.
  If it is in use, remove or replace the variant in those assignments before attempting deletion.
  
  
  
  Use Transaction SE38 or SA38:
  
  Run the report or program for which the variant was created.
  Use the "Variants" button to manage variants.
  Try to delete the variant from here, ensuring you have the necessary authorizations.
  
  
  
  Check Variant Attributes:
  
  Use transaction SHD0 (Transaction Recorder) or SE93 to check if the variant is linked to a transaction or program that has changed.
  Sometimes variants linked to old versions cannot be deleted directly.
  
  
  
  Use Program RS_VARIANT_DELETE:
  
  SAP provides a standard report RS_VARIANT_DELETE to delete variants.
  This program allows you to delete variants that are no longer needed.
  Be cautious and ensure the variant is not in use.
  
  
  
  Check Authorization:
  
  Ensure you have the necessary authorization to delete variants.
  Lack of authorization can sometimes cause misleading error messages.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes:
  
  Check SAP Support Portal for any notes related to WRF_PRC_BAS021.
  Sometimes, specific patches or corrections are available.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Variants in SAP: Variants store default input values for reports or transactions to simplify repetitive tasks.
  Process Chains: Variants are often used in process chains in SAP BW or other modules; deleting a variant used in a process chain can cause errors.
  Standard vs Custom Variants: Standard SAP variants are usually protected from deletion to avoid system inconsistencies.
  Transaction SE38 / SA38: Used to execute reports and manage variants.
  Program RS_VARIANT_DELETE: Standard SAP program to delete variants safely.
  Authorization Objects: S_VARIANT controls variant management authorizations.
  
  
  Summary:
  The error WRF_PRC_BAS021 Variant & is old and can no longer be deleted indicates that the variant you are trying to delete is considered obsolete or protected by the system. To fix this, verify the variant's usage, ensure you have proper authorization, and use the appropriate SAP tools or programs like RS_VARIANT_DELETE to remove the variant safely. If the problem persists, consult SAP Notes or your SAP Basis/Support team for further assistance.