SAP Knowledge Base Article - Public

3650672 - MDF Picklist Import failed due to internal error

Symptom

When attempting to import MDF picklists, the import fails and displays the following error message: "You can't save this instance as there is an internal error. If the issue continues, please contact Technical Support."

Environment

  • SAP SuccessFactors HCM Suite
  • Metadata Framework

Reproducing the Issue

  1. Navigate to "Import and Export Data"
  2. Attach the file intended for import and upload it to the system.
  3. Check the "Job Schedule Monitor" for the results, where the erro will be displayed.

Cause

  • The issue is caused by trailing spaces (extra 'space' character at the end) in the external codes of MDF picklist values. These trailing spaces with existing data during the import process.
  • Picklist creation with trailing spaces is an old issue, which was fixed in previous releases, but with very old picklists the issue can still be present.
  • A case sensitivity in the ExternalCode format.

Resolution

This behavior typically occurs when there are spaces or mismatch in the values used in the import file. To resolve the issue, follow the instructions below:

1. Verify if there are no discrepancies in the import 'ExternalCode' field, such as: 

  • Leading or trailing spaces.
  • Extra characters.
  • Differences in letter case sensitivity (ensure exact match to the picklist value, including uppercase/lowercase).

2. If the issue persists even after checking the step above, please contact SAP SuccessFactors Support by creating a ticket under component LOD-SF-MDF-IMP and include the following information:

  • Company ID.
  • The affected picklists.
  • Attach to the case the import used.

The SuccessFactors support team will reach out to the internal engineering team who can scan all impacted picklist external codes with trailing spaces and trim them via backend script.

See Also

Help guide: MDF Picklist Import 

Keywords

MDF picklist import, internal error, external code conflict, trailing spaces, import failure, SAP SuccessFactors, Employee Central, job schedule monitor, MDF, picklist values , KBA , LOD-SF-MDF-IMP , Import and Export Issues , Problem

Product

SAP SuccessFactors HCM Suite all versions