How To Fix 28046 - Reference characteristic expected

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 28 - Configuration

• Message number: 046

• Message text: Reference characteristic expected

What causes this issue?

After the keyword 'MDATA', which indicates a reference to master data
from the object dependency, you can only enter a
<DS:GLOS.reference_characteristic>reference characteristic</>.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Check the expression at the cursor and make the necessary corrections.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 28046 - Reference characteristic expected ?

  The SAP error message 28046, "Reference characteristic expected," typically occurs in the context of SAP's Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) or SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) when dealing with characteristics and key figures in planning models. This error indicates that the system is expecting a reference characteristic to be defined, but it is either missing or incorrectly configured.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Reference Characteristic: The characteristic that is expected as a reference is not defined in the planning model or is not assigned correctly.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration of the planning model may not align with the expected structure, leading to the system not recognizing the reference characteristic.
  Data Model Issues: There may be issues with the data model where the reference characteristic is not properly linked to the key figures or other characteristics.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Go to the planning model configuration and ensure that the reference characteristic is defined and correctly assigned.
  Verify that the characteristic is active and available for use in the planning model.
  
  
  
  Define Reference Characteristic:
  
  If the reference characteristic is missing, you may need to create it in the characteristic settings.
  Ensure that the characteristic is set up with the correct attributes and is linked to the relevant key figures.
  
  
  
  Review Data Model:
  
  Check the data model to ensure that all necessary characteristics are included and properly linked.
  Validate that the data model is consistent and that there are no discrepancies in the definitions.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on configuring characteristics and key figures in your version of SAP.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making changes, test the configuration to ensure that the error is resolved and that the planning model functions as expected.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed.
  SAP Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance, providing them with detailed information about the error and the steps you have taken to resolve it.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.