How To Fix AD053 - Field & is used as a reference field and cannot be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AD - Data Dictionary application messages

• Message number: 053

• Message text: Field & is used as a reference field and cannot be deleted

What causes this issue?

The field cannot be deleted from the table because it occurs as a CUKY
or QUAN reference field in another table.
You can obtain a list of all table fields which use this field as a
reference field by selecting the where-used option in the menu
'Utilities'.

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?

You can only delete the field once all its uses as a reference field
in other tables have been deleted.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AD053 - Field & is used as a reference field and cannot be deleted ?

  The SAP error message AD053 indicates that a specific field (denoted by &) is being used as a reference field in the system, and therefore, it cannot be deleted. This typically occurs in the context of data dictionary objects, such as tables or structures, where certain fields are defined as reference fields for foreign key relationships or other dependencies.
  Cause:
  
  Reference Field Usage: The field you are trying to delete is being used as a reference in one or more foreign key relationships. This means that other tables or structures depend on this field for data integrity.
  Data Dictionary Constraints: SAP enforces data integrity rules, and if a field is referenced elsewhere, it cannot be removed without potentially compromising the integrity of the data model.
  
  Solution:
  
  Identify Dependencies: Use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE14 (Database Utility) to check where the field is being used. Look for foreign key relationships or other dependencies that involve the field.
  Remove Dependencies: If you determine that the field can be safely removed, you will need to first delete or modify the foreign key relationships or any other dependencies that reference this field.
  Delete the Field: Once all dependencies are removed, you can proceed to delete the field from the data dictionary object.
  Transport Changes: If you are working in a development environment, ensure that you transport the changes to the appropriate environments (e.g., quality assurance, production) after thorough testing.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE14 (Database Utility), and SE80 (Object Navigator) to manage and analyze data dictionary objects.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help resources for best practices on managing data dictionary objects and understanding the implications of deleting fields.
  Testing: Always perform thorough testing in a development or quality assurance environment before making changes in production to avoid data integrity issues.
  
  Best Practices:
  
  Backup: Before making any changes, ensure you have a backup of the current state of the data dictionary objects.
  Change Management: Follow your organization's change management procedures to document and approve changes to the data model.
  Consultation: If unsure, consult with a senior SAP consultant or a technical team member who has experience with data dictionary management.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the AD053 error and manage your data dictionary objects effectively.