How To Fix 28072 - Characteristic reference/variable used more than once: &1 &2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 28 - Configuration

• Message number: 072

• Message text: Characteristic reference/variable used more than once: &1 &2

What causes this issue?

The syntax check on the dependency found two different names, &V1& and
&V2& for the same characteristic-specific variable.

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?

If you have defined, for example, the description:
?T IS_A POST
WHERE ?L = LENGTH
in a constraint, you must use <LB>?L</> to denote <LB>POST.LENGTH</>
throughout the constraint. Correct your entry accordingly.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 28072 - Characteristic reference/variable used more than once: &1 &2 ?

  The SAP error message 28072 indicates that a characteristic reference or variable has been used more than once in a context where it is expected to be unique. This typically occurs in the context of SAP's reporting tools, such as SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP Query, where characteristics or variables are defined for use in queries or reports.
  Cause:
  The error can arise from several scenarios, including:
  
  Duplicate Variables: The same variable or characteristic is being referenced multiple times in a query or report definition.
  Incorrect Query Design: The design of the query may inadvertently include the same characteristic in multiple places, such as in filters, selections, or output fields.
  Hierarchy Issues: If you are using hierarchies, the same characteristic might be included in different levels or nodes.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review Query/Report Design:
  
  Open the query or report where the error is occurring.
  Check the list of characteristics and variables used in the query.
  Ensure that each characteristic or variable is only used once.
  
  
  
  Remove Duplicates:
  
  If you find that a characteristic or variable is used more than once, remove the duplicates or consolidate them into a single reference.
  
  
  
  Check Filters and Selections:
  
  Look at any filters or selection criteria to ensure that the same characteristic is not being applied multiple times.
  
  
  
  Test the Query:
  
  After making changes, test the query to ensure that the error is resolved and that the report returns the expected results.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the correct usage of characteristics and variables, refer to SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on best practices.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  Training and Documentation: Consider reviewing training materials or documentation on query design in SAP BW or the specific reporting tool you are using.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the error message 28072 in your SAP environment.