How To Fix AP322 - Characteristic &1 can only be changed manually

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AP - Investment program messages

• Message number: 322

• Message text: Characteristic &1 can only be changed manually

What causes this issue?

Manual maintenance has been set up for field &V1& in the master data
table for the characteristic (TAIF-XAUTO = 'X').

System Response

Characteristic entries are not newly generated for the field. The old
settings for the characteristic are kept.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AP322 - Characteristic &1 can only be changed manually ?

  The SAP error message AP322, which states "Characteristic &1 can only be changed manually," typically occurs in the context of SAP's variant configuration or when dealing with characteristics in a material master or class. This message indicates that the characteristic in question is set to be manually maintained, meaning it cannot be changed through automatic processes or by certain transactions.
  Cause:
  
  Manual Maintenance Setting: The characteristic is defined in such a way that it can only be changed manually. This is often a design choice to ensure that certain attributes of a product or material are controlled by user input rather than automated processes.
  Configuration Settings: The characteristic may be linked to a configuration profile that restricts changes to manual input only.
  Status of the Characteristic: The characteristic might be in a status that does not allow for changes through the current transaction or process being executed.
  
  Solution:
  
  Manual Change: If you need to change the characteristic, you will have to do so manually. Navigate to the appropriate transaction (e.g., CU01 for configuration, MM02 for material master) and make the changes directly.
  Review Characteristic Settings: Check the configuration of the characteristic in the SAP system. You can do this by going to the transaction code CT04 (for characteristics) and reviewing the settings. If you have the necessary authorizations, you can change the characteristic settings to allow for automatic changes if that aligns with your business process.
  Consult Documentation: Review any documentation or guidelines related to the specific characteristics and their intended use within your organization. This can provide insights into why the characteristic is set to manual and whether it should remain that way.
  Check User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to the characteristic. Sometimes, restrictions can be due to user roles and permissions.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  CT04: Create/Change Characteristic
  CU01: Create Configuration Profile
  MM02: Change Material Master
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or additional guidance related to this error message.
  Training and Documentation: Consider training sessions or documentation on variant configuration and characteristics management in SAP to better understand how to work with these elements effectively.
  
  If the issue persists or if you need further assistance, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in variant configuration or material management.