How To Fix AD369 - Field definitions were changed completely. Data will be lost

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AD - Data Dictionary application messages

• Message number: 369

• Message text: Field definitions were changed completely. Data will be lost

What causes this issue?

Field definitions in the table have changed so completely that data
conversion is no longer possible. In TRANSP-type tables, you must
delete the database table. Existing data is lost in the process. You
can then activate the table and recreate it in the database. In tables
of the POOL/CLUSTER type, you must delete data and recreate the table
screen.

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

System Response

How to fix this error?

Use the online conversion function to convert a table of the TRANSP
type (deleting the database table, activating the ABAP/4 Dictionary
table, and recreating the database table) and to delete data from a
table of the POOL/CLUSTER type.
INCLUDE ADIC-DB-UTILITIES
INCLUDE ADIC-UPDATEFORCE

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AD369 - Field definitions were changed completely. Data will be lost ?

  The SAP error message AD369 ("Field definitions were changed completely. Data will be lost") typically occurs when there are changes made to the structure of a database table or a data structure in a way that is incompatible with existing data. This can happen during various operations, such as when you are trying to activate a transport request that includes changes to the data structure, or when you are working with custom programs or enhancements that modify the underlying data model.
  Cause:
  
  Table Structure Changes: The most common cause is that the structure of a database table has been altered (e.g., fields added, removed, or changed) in a way that is incompatible with the existing data.
  Transport Requests: If a transport request is being imported that includes changes to the data structure, and those changes are incompatible with the existing data, this error can occur.
  Data Dictionary Changes: Changes in the Data Dictionary (SE11) that affect the field definitions of a table or structure can lead to this error.
  Custom Development: Custom programs or enhancements that modify the data structure without proper consideration of existing data can also trigger this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Changes: Check the changes made to the table or structure in the Data Dictionary. Ensure that the changes are necessary and that they will not lead to data loss.
  Backup Data: Before making any changes, ensure that you have a backup of the existing data. This can help you restore the data if necessary.
  Data Migration: If the changes are necessary, consider migrating the existing data to the new structure. This may involve writing a custom program to read the old data and write it to the new structure.
  Adjust Transport Requests: If the error occurs during a transport import, review the transport request to ensure that it does not include incompatible changes. You may need to adjust the transport or coordinate with the development team.
  Testing: Always test changes in a development or quality assurance environment before applying them to production. This can help identify potential issues before they affect live data.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or consult with SAP support for specific guidance related to your version and configuration.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may want to use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE80 (Object Navigator), or SE37 (Function Builder) to investigate the changes made to the data structures.
  SAP Notes: Check for relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide guidance on best practices for making changes to data structures.
  Change Management: Implement a change management process to ensure that all changes to the data model are reviewed and tested before being applied to production systems.
  
  By following these steps, you can address the AD369 error and minimize the risk of data loss during structural changes in SAP.