When working with an API sheet, get the error: 'This model was created with a newer version of the product and cannot be loaded'

Problem: 

I am working with an API sheet and I get the error "This model was created with a newer version of the product and cannot be loaded."  What does it mean and how to resolve it?

Solution: 

It is most likely what the error says.  You may be using an older version of erwin DM than what the model being opened using the API.  Just as one cannot open a later version of model using an older version of erwin DM, API also works the same way.  Another possibility is that you may have the matching version, but your API related DLL (EAL.DLL) may be for an older version.  For example the model may be in erwin DM 2018 R1 version, but the DLL registered is for erwin DM 9.7 or 9.8.  

The solution is to make sure that the DLL registered is for the version that can open the model or alternately open the model using the current version of erwin and save it as the older/compatible version.  Then use your API sheet against that model instead.