How To Fix /AIF/IF_BUILDER021 - Node is a field; hierarchical mapping was not created

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /AIF/IF_BUILDER -

• Message number: 021

• Message text: Node is a field; hierarchical mapping was not created

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /AIF/IF_BUILDER021 - Node is a field; hierarchical mapping was not created ?

  The SAP error message /AIF/IF_BUILDER021 Node is a field; hierarchical mapping was not created typically occurs in the context of the SAP Application Interface Framework (AIF) when you are trying to create or modify a mapping for an interface. This error indicates that the system expected a hierarchical structure for the mapping, but it encountered a node that is defined as a field instead.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Mapping Definition: The mapping definition may have been set up incorrectly, where a node that should represent a hierarchical structure is instead defined as a simple field.
  Data Structure Mismatch: The data structure of the source or target message does not match the expected hierarchical structure defined in the mapping.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the configuration of the AIF interface or the message type that lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Review Mapping Definition:
  
  Go to the AIF mapping transaction (e.g., /AIF/IF_MAPPER).
  Check the mapping definition for the interface in question.
  Ensure that the nodes are correctly defined as either fields or hierarchical nodes as per the expected structure.
  
  
  
  Adjust Data Structure:
  
  Verify the source and target message structures to ensure they align with the hierarchical mapping requirements.
  If necessary, adjust the data structure in the source or target system to match the expected format.
  
  
  
  Recreate Mapping:
  
  If the mapping is complex or has been modified multiple times, consider recreating the mapping from scratch to ensure that all nodes are correctly defined.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or guides related to AIF and hierarchical mapping to ensure compliance with best practices.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making changes, test the mapping with sample data to ensure that the error does not reoccur.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  AIF Documentation: Review the official SAP AIF documentation for detailed information on hierarchical mapping and interface configuration.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or support channels for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.