How To Fix CJ680 - Grayed-out special indicators are already being used

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CJ - Project master data and structure

• Message number: 680

• Message text: Grayed-out special indicators are already being used

What causes this issue?

If you use a special character that is already being used in an edit
screen, you cannot change or delete the special character, because this
would lead to inconsistencies in the edit screen.

System Response

All affected special characters are grayed out and you cannot enter any
data into the field.

How to fix this error?

Adapt all affected edit screens so that the special characters you want
to change/delete are no longer used.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CJ680 - Grayed-out special indicators are already being used ?

  The SAP error message CJ680, which states "Grayed-out special indicators are already being used," typically occurs in the context of project management within SAP, particularly when dealing with project structures, WBS (Work Breakdown Structure) elements, or network activities. This error indicates that certain special indicators (like milestones, deliverables, etc.) that you are trying to assign or modify are already in use in another context or have been locked for some reason.
  Causes:
  
  Indicator Already Assigned: The special indicator you are trying to use is already assigned to another project or WBS element.
  Locked by Another User: The indicator may be locked by another user who is currently working on the same project or WBS element.
  System Configuration: There may be system settings or configurations that prevent the use of certain indicators in specific contexts.
  Status of the Project: The project or WBS element may be in a status that does not allow changes to special indicators.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Usage: Verify if the special indicator is already assigned to another project or WBS element. You can do this by checking the relevant project structures in the system.
  Unlock the Indicator: If the indicator is locked by another user, you may need to wait until they release it or contact them to unlock it.
  Change Project Status: If the project or WBS element is in a status that restricts changes, consider changing its status to allow modifications.
  Consult Documentation: Review the SAP documentation or configuration settings related to project management and special indicators to ensure that you are following the correct procedures.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CJ20N (Project Builder) or CJ02 (Change Project) to navigate project structures effectively.
  User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to project indicators.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message, as they may provide specific fixes or workarounds.
  Training and Documentation: Consider training sessions or documentation on project management in SAP to better understand how to manage special indicators and project structures.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the CJ680 error and continue working with your project in SAP.