How To Fix BUPA_HIERARCHY017 - Higher-level node cannot be the same as the subordinate node

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BUPA_HIERARCHY - BP Group Hierarchy

• Message number: 017

• Message text: Higher-level node cannot be the same as the subordinate node

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BUPA_HIERARCHY017 - Higher-level node cannot be the same as the subordinate node ?

  The SAP error message BUPA_HIERARCHY017 indicates that there is an issue with the hierarchical structure of business partners (BPs) in the SAP system. Specifically, this error occurs when you attempt to assign a business partner as a subordinate to itself, which is not allowed in the hierarchical structure.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when:
  
  You are trying to create or modify a hierarchy where a business partner (the higher-level node) is being assigned as a subordinate node to itself.
  This can happen due to incorrect data entry or logic in the process of creating or managing business partner hierarchies.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you should:
  
  Check the Hierarchy Structure: Review the hierarchy structure you are trying to create or modify. Ensure that you are not assigning a business partner to itself.
  Correct the Assignment: If you find that a business partner is incorrectly assigned as its own subordinate, remove that assignment and replace it with the correct subordinate business partner.
  Validate Data Entry: Ensure that the data entry process for creating or modifying business partner hierarchies is correctly implemented to prevent this error from occurring in the future.
  Use Transaction Codes: Utilize relevant transaction codes (like BP for business partner maintenance) to review and adjust the hierarchy settings.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Business Partner Hierarchy: In SAP, business partners can be organized in a hierarchical structure for better management and reporting. Each business partner can have multiple subordinate partners, but they cannot be their own subordinate.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for more details on managing business partner hierarchies and understanding the constraints involved.
  Error Handling: If you frequently encounter this error, consider implementing validation checks in your processes to catch such issues before they lead to errors.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the BUPA_HIERARCHY017 error and maintain a valid business partner hierarchy in your SAP system.