How To Fix 28516 - Error in dependency &1: negative value for characteristic &2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 28 - Configuration

• Message number: 516

• Message text: Error in dependency &1: negative value for characteristic &2

What causes this issue?

In a dependency, a negative value is inferred for a numeric
characteristic, although the characteristic does not allow negative
values.

System Response

Processing of the dependency terminated.

How to fix this error?

Check the code of the dependency, and whether you want to allow
negative values for the characteristic.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 28516 - Error in dependency &1: negative value for characteristic &2 ?

  The SAP error message 28516, which states "Error in dependency &1: negative value for characteristic &2," typically occurs in the context of variant configuration or when working with dependencies in SAP. This error indicates that a characteristic is being assigned a negative value, which is not allowed in the context of the configuration.
  Cause:
  
  Negative Value Assignment: The primary cause of this error is that a characteristic is being assigned a negative value, which is not valid. This can happen due to incorrect logic in the dependencies or constraints defined in the configuration profile.
  Incorrect Dependency Logic: The dependencies (e.g., constraints, rules) defined for the characteristics may have been set up incorrectly, leading to a situation where a negative value is calculated or assigned.
  Data Entry Errors: There may be data entry errors where a user inadvertently inputs a negative value for a characteristic.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Dependencies: Check the dependencies associated with the characteristic in question. Ensure that the logic does not allow for negative values. Modify the dependency logic if necessary to prevent negative assignments.
  Check Characteristic Values: Review the values assigned to the characteristic. Ensure that all values are valid and within the expected range (i.e., non-negative).
  Debugging: If the error persists, consider debugging the dependency logic to trace how the negative value is being generated. This may involve checking the sequence of operations or conditions that lead to the assignment of the characteristic.
  Data Validation: Implement validation checks to ensure that negative values cannot be entered for the characteristic in question. This can help prevent the error from occurring in the future.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on the characteristics and dependencies you are working with.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CU01 (Create Dependency), CU02 (Change Dependency), and CU03 (Display Dependency) to manage dependencies effectively.
  Testing: After making changes, conduct thorough testing to ensure that the error does not occur again and that the configuration behaves as expected.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.