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How To Fix WS479 - Message type of message &1 was changed manually


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: WS - Supplier Billing Document

  • Message number: 479

  • Message text: Message type of message &1 was changed manually

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WS479 - Message type of message &1 was changed manually ?

    SAP Error Message:
    WS479 - Message type of message &1 was changed manually


    Cause:

    This message appears when the message type of a standard SAP message has been manually changed in the system. In SAP, messages (like error, warning, information messages) have predefined message types (e.g., E for error, W for warning, I for information). Changing the message type manually (for example, changing an error message to a warning) is generally not recommended because it can affect the standard behavior of SAP programs and processes.

    The system detects that the message type for a particular message number (indicated by &1) has been altered from its original standard setting.


    Explanation:

    • SAP standard messages are delivered with a fixed message type.
    • If a user or consultant changes the message type manually in transaction SE91 (Message Maintenance), the system logs this as a warning or error.
    • This is often done to change the behavior of a message (e.g., to prevent a process from stopping on an error by converting it to a warning).
    • However, such changes can lead to inconsistent system behavior or issues during upgrades/support packs.

    Solution:

    1. Review the Change:

      • Go to transaction SE91 (Message Maintenance).
      • Enter the message class and message number indicated by the error.
      • Check the current message type and compare it with the original SAP standard message type.
    2. Restore Original Message Type:

      • If the change was unintentional or causing issues, restore the message type to the original SAP standard value.
      • You may need to refer to SAP standard documentation or a clean SAP system to verify the original message type.
    3. If Change is Required:

      • If the business process requires the message type to be changed, document the change thoroughly.
      • Consider implementing a user-exit or enhancement to handle the message differently instead of changing the message type directly.
      • Be aware that such changes might be overwritten during SAP upgrades or support package installations.
    4. Transport and Testing:

      • If you restore or change the message type, ensure the change is transported properly.
      • Test the affected processes thoroughly to confirm that the message behavior is as expected.

    Related Information:

    • Transaction SE91: Used to maintain message classes and messages.
    • SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to message WS479 or the specific message number.
    • Best Practice: Avoid changing standard SAP message types directly. Use enhancements or custom messages if different behavior is needed.
    • Upgrade Impact: Manual changes to standard messages can be lost during upgrades or support package implementations.

    Summary:

    • Cause: Manual change of the message type for a standard SAP message.
    • Solution: Verify and restore the original message type in SE91 or handle message behavior via enhancements.
    • Precaution: Avoid direct changes to standard messages; document and test thoroughly if changes are necessary.

    If you provide the specific message class and number, I can help you check the original message type or suggest alternatives.

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