How To Fix CJ681 - At least one coding mask is already being used

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CJ - Project master data and structure

• Message number: 681

• Message text: At least one coding mask is already being used

What causes this issue?

In this client you can save project numbers and WBS numbers that you
have edited to the database, in order to more effectively use wildcards
for edited numbers.
If you change special characters in an edit screen, for which at least
a project, standard project, version project, WBS element, standard WBS
element or version WBS element exists, the wildcard search help no
longer properly works.

System Response

The system highlights all affected edit screens.

How to fix this error?

Do not change the affected edit screens.
If you cannot avoid changing a special character in an affected edit
screen, you must then start the report R_FILL_POSID_PSPID_EDIT with
TEST = ' '
REORG = 'X'
Make sure that this report does not set a lock and therefore can only
be started if no project, standard project, version project, WBS
element standard WBS element or version WBS element is being processed
at the time.

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 CJ681 - At least one coding mask is already being used ?

  The SAP error message CJ681, which states "At least one coding mask is already being used," typically occurs in the context of project management and controlling within SAP, particularly when dealing with project structures and coding masks (also known as "coding templates" or "coding schemes"). This error indicates that the coding mask you are trying to create or modify is already in use by another project or element.
  Cause:
  
  Existing Usage: The coding mask you are trying to create or modify is already assigned to one or more projects or WBS (Work Breakdown Structure) elements.
  Locked Entries: The coding mask may be locked due to ongoing transactions or processes that are using it.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings that prevent the modification of the coding mask if it is already in use.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Usage: 
  
  Use transaction codes like CJ20N (Project Builder) or CJ03 (Display WBS Element) to check if the coding mask is already assigned to any existing projects or WBS elements.
  If it is in use, you may need to either modify the existing projects to use a different coding mask or remove the assignment.
  
  
  
  Unlock Entries: 
  
  If the coding mask is locked, ensure that no transactions are currently using it. You may need to wait for other users to finish their work or check for any background jobs that might be using the coding mask.
  
  
  
  Create a New Coding Mask: 
  
  If you cannot modify the existing coding mask, consider creating a new coding mask that meets your requirements and is not currently in use.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: 
  
  Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP administrator for specific guidelines on managing coding masks and project structures.
  
  
  
  Authorization Check: 
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to create or modify coding masks in the system.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CJ20N, CJ03, and OPUK (for coding mask configuration).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to coding masks and project management.
  User Roles: Ensure that your user role has the appropriate permissions to manage coding masks and project structures.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team or consult with an SAP expert for further assistance.