How To Fix WS_TOOL188 - Provide description

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WS_TOOL - Message Class for Web Services and Virtual Endpoints

• Message number: 188

• Message text: Provide description

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 WS_TOOL188 - Provide description ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WS_TOOL188 - Provide description
  
  Cause:
  The error message WS_TOOL188 typically occurs when a required description field is left empty during a transaction or configuration step in SAP. The system expects a description to be entered for a particular object (such as a tool, work center, or other master data), and if this is missing, it triggers this error.
  
  When does it occur?
  
  While creating or changing master data (e.g., tools, work centers, equipment).
  During configuration or customizing steps where a description is mandatory.
  In transactions related to Plant Maintenance (PM), Production Planning (PP), or other modules where tools or similar objects are managed.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  Provide a valid description: Enter a meaningful description in the required field before saving or proceeding.
  Check mandatory fields: Ensure all mandatory fields, especially description fields, are filled.
  Review field status: If the description field is not visible or editable, check the field status group or screen layout configuration to make sure the description field is set as mandatory or optional as per business requirements.
  User training: Make sure users are aware that descriptions are mandatory for the object they are working on.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction codes: The error can appear in transactions like IE01/IE02 (Create/Change Equipment), CR01/CR02 (Create/Change Work Center), or tool management transactions.
  Field status groups: In customizing, field status groups control which fields are mandatory, optional, or suppressed.
  SAP Notes: If the error persists despite entering descriptions, check for relevant SAP Notes or patches.
  Debugging: If you have development access, you can debug the program to see exactly where the error is triggered to understand the context better.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Details
  
  
  
  
  Error
  WS_TOOL188 - Provide description
  
  
  Cause
  Missing mandatory description field
  
  
  Solution
  Enter a valid description in the required field
  
  
  Modules
  PM, PP, Tool Management, Equipment Master
  
  
  Check
  Field status groups, screen layouts, user input
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the exact transaction or context where this error occurs, I can help with more specific guidance.