How To Fix CL296 - Characteristic &1: value does not match the format

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CL - Classification

• Message number: 296

• Message text: Characteristic &1: value does not match the format

What causes this issue?

The value does not match the format defined for the characteristic.

System Response

The update is terminated.

How to fix this error?

Change the format defined for characteristic &V1& so that value &V2& is
allowed.

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 CL296 - Characteristic &1: value does not match the format ?

  The SAP error message CL296 indicates that a characteristic value does not match the expected format defined in the system. This typically occurs in the context of classification, where characteristics are used to define the properties of a material or object.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Data Entry: The value entered for the characteristic does not conform to the format specified in the characteristic definition (e.g., numeric, alphanumeric, date, etc.).
  Characteristic Definition: The characteristic may have specific formatting rules (like length, data type, or value range) that the entered value does not satisfy.
  Master Data Issues: The characteristic might be linked to a master data record that has not been properly maintained or updated.
  Custom Code or Enhancements: If there are custom developments or enhancements in the system, they might be enforcing additional validation rules that are not standard.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Characteristic Definition: Go to the classification view in SAP and check the definition of the characteristic. Ensure that the value you are trying to enter matches the expected format.
  
  Transaction Code: CT04 (to view characteristic details).
  
  
  
  Validate Input Data: Ensure that the data you are entering adheres to the defined format. For example, if the characteristic expects a numeric value, ensure that you are not entering text or special characters.
  
  
  Review Master Data: Check the master data associated with the characteristic to ensure it is correctly maintained. This includes checking for any dependencies or relationships with other characteristics.
  
  
  Error Message Details: Look for additional details in the error message that might provide more context about what specifically is wrong with the value.
  
  
  Testing: If you are using a custom program or transaction, test the input in a standard transaction to see if the error persists. This can help identify if the issue is with the data or the custom code.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the expected format, refer to the documentation or help files related to the specific characteristic.
  
  
  Contact Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with a functional consultant who specializes in classification.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  CT04 - Create/Change Characteristic
  CL02 - Change Class
  CL03 - Display Class
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to classification and characteristics.
  User Exits and BAdIs: If there are custom validations in place, review any user exits or BAdIs that might be affecting the characteristic validation process.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the CL296 error message in SAP.