How To Fix CLASSIFICATION_TOOL037 - The reference characteristic has not been specified.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CLASSIFICATION_TOOL - Classification tool

• Message number: 037

• Message text: The reference characteristic has not been specified.

What causes this issue?

The definition of a characteristic that refers to a value of another
multivalued characteristic requires the specification of the referenced
characteristic and the referred value.
The specification of the referenced characteristic is missing.

System Response

The characteristic cannot be activated.

How to fix this error?

Specify the referenced characteristic.,,

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 CLASSIFICATION_TOOL037 - The reference characteristic has not been specified. ?

  The SAP error message CLASSIFICATION_TOOL037 indicates that a reference characteristic has not been specified in the context of classification. This error typically arises when you are trying to create or modify a classification object (like a material or a characteristic) and the system expects a reference characteristic to be defined, but it is missing.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Reference Characteristic: The primary cause of this error is that the reference characteristic, which is required for the classification process, has not been specified in the relevant configuration or master data.
  Incorrect Configuration: The classification system may not be properly configured, leading to missing or incorrect settings for reference characteristics.
  Data Entry Error: There may be a mistake in the data entry process where the reference characteristic was overlooked or incorrectly input.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Specify the Reference Characteristic:
  
  Go to the classification view of the object you are working with (e.g., material master).
  Ensure that you specify the reference characteristic in the appropriate field.
  
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Navigate to the classification settings in the SAP system (Transaction code: CL02 for characteristics).
  Verify that the reference characteristics are correctly defined for the class you are working with.
  If necessary, create or modify the characteristics to include the required reference.
  
  
  
  Review Class Assignment:
  
  Ensure that the class to which the object is assigned has the necessary characteristics defined.
  Check if the class is correctly assigned to the object.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources related to classification and characteristics to ensure you are following the correct procedures.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary changes, test the classification process again to ensure that the error has been resolved.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CL01 (Create Class), CL02 (Change Class), CL03 (Display Class), and CL30 (Class Overview).
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to classification errors that may provide additional insights or patches.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to make changes to classification settings.
  Training and Documentation: Consider training sessions or documentation on SAP classification if you frequently encounter issues.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in classification and master data management.