How To Fix BRAIN_DEV011 - Characteristics can't be added to queries with non-cumulative key figures

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BRAIN_DEV - BRAIN messages (for use by development)

• Message number: 011

• Message text: Characteristics can't be added to queries with non-cumulative key figures

What causes this issue?

Free characteristics cannot be added to queries with non-cumulative key
figures.

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?

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BRAIN_DEV011 - Characteristics can't be added to queries with non-cumulative key figures ?

  The SAP error message BRAIN_DEV011 indicates that you are trying to add characteristics to a query that includes non-cumulative key figures. Non-cumulative key figures are those that do not accumulate over time, such as averages or ratios, and they cannot be aggregated in the same way as cumulative key figures (like sales or quantities).
  Cause:
  The error occurs because the query you are trying to create or modify includes non-cumulative key figures, and SAP does not allow the addition of characteristics that would require aggregation of these non-cumulative key figures. This is a design limitation in SAP BW (Business Warehouse) queries to ensure that the data is presented accurately.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can consider the following approaches:
  
  
  Remove Non-Cumulative Key Figures: If possible, remove the non-cumulative key figures from your query. This will allow you to add the desired characteristics without encountering the error.
  
  
  Use Cumulative Key Figures: If your analysis requires the use of characteristics, consider using cumulative key figures instead. This may involve changing the key figures in your query or creating new key figures that are cumulative.
  
  
  Separate Queries: If you need both non-cumulative and cumulative key figures, consider creating separate queries. One query can focus on the non-cumulative key figures, while another can handle the cumulative ones.
  
  
  Check Query Design: Review the design of your query to ensure that it aligns with the data model and the characteristics you want to analyze. Sometimes, restructuring the query can help avoid this error.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP BW documentation or help resources for more detailed guidance on working with key figures and characteristics in queries.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Key Figures: Understand the difference between cumulative and non-cumulative key figures in SAP BW. Cumulative key figures can be summed over time, while non-cumulative key figures represent values that do not accumulate.
  Query Designer: Familiarize yourself with the SAP Query Designer tool, which allows you to create and modify queries. Understanding its limitations and capabilities can help you avoid similar errors in the future.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes or updates that may address this issue or provide additional guidance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the BRAIN_DEV011 error and successfully create or modify your query in SAP BW.