Introduction
SAP system messages play a crucial role in Inventory Management, Purchasing, and Physical Inventory by guiding users on system responses to different actions. These messages help prevent incorrect entries, enforce compliance, and streamline procurement and inventory processes.This guide explains how to configure SAP system messages for inventory and purchasing management, including troubleshooting common issues.
Configuring System Messages in SAP Inventory Management
SAP allows users to control system messages by configuring their response types. Depending on business requirements, system messages can be set as:- Error (E) – Prevents further action when an issue occurs.
- Warning (W) – Alerts users about potential issues but allows them to proceed after confirming the message.
- No Message (Blank) – Disables the system message.
Message Categories and Their Functions
| Message Category | Function |
|---|---|
| E - Error | Stops processing and prevents further action. |
| W - Warning | Displays a warning but allows the user to proceed after reconfirmation. |
| No Message | Suppresses the system message. |
SAP Transactions for System Messages Configuration
| Transaction Code | Function |
|---|---|
| OMCQ | Inventory Management & Physical Inventory system messages |
| OME0 | Purchasing document messages |
| 06 | Purchasing document configurations |
| SE | External services master data (Service Item) |
| ME | General purchasing messages |
Example Scenario: Preventing PO Posting When Contract Value is Exceeded
Problem:A user creates a Purchase Order (PO) with document type RO, referring to a contract (WK document type) valued at 1 lakh. However, when the PO exceeds the contract value, SAP still allows the PO to be posted instead of restricting it.
Solution:
To prevent SAP from posting a PO when the contract
value is exceeded, follow these steps:
- Go to Configuration (IMG): Materials Management -> Purchasing -> Environment Data -> Define Attributes of System Messages
- Find the relevant system message for contract value or quantity exceeding:
- Target value of contract & exceeded by & &
- Target quantity exceeded by & &
- Set the message category to "E" (Error) under the CAT column.
Example Scenario: Release Strategy Issue in Purchase Requisition
Problem:A Purchase Requisition (PR) is created and released. The user cancels the release, makes some changes, and then tries to release it again. The PR does not enter the release strategy again after modification.
Solution:
- Check the Release Indicator Configuration:
- Verify the Changeability Indicator:
SPRO -> Materials Management -> Purchasing -> Purchase Requisition -> Define Release Procedure
SPRO -> Materials Management -> Purchasing -> Purchase Requisition -> Define Changeability of Released PR
