How To Fix CLBW018 - Characteristic is a reference characteristic

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CLBW - Classification and BW

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Characteristic is a reference characteristic

What causes this issue?

You entered a reference characteristic.

System Response

The system can only process object characteristics under specific
circumstances.

How to fix this error?

Data for reference characteristics is only stored in the classification
tables in the following cases:
If the Redundant storage indicator is set for the class type and object
type in Customizing for Classification System under Classes > Maintain
Object Types and Class Types. This indicator is not set automatically
for existing classifications. Redundant data for reference
characteristics in the classification tables is only created in future
classifications or if you change existing classifications.
Alternatively, you could avoid activating the redundancy if you extract
the data with the object it belongs to (for example, material) and not
via classification.
If the data for reference characteristics is provided by the
corresponding application (for example, MARA provided by Materials Mana
gement). If a table name (such as EKPO) specified in a reference
characteristic is not supplied by the application (for example, Mat
erials Management), the characteristic behaves like a normal
characteristic in classification. That is, the input field accepts user
entries and these are stored in the classification tables. Thus, data
for this characteristic can also be extracted irrespective of whether
the redundant storage indicator was set.

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 CLBW018 - Characteristic is a reference characteristic ?

  The SAP error message CLBW018 indicates that the characteristic you are trying to use is a reference characteristic. Reference characteristics are used in SAP BW (Business Warehouse) to link to other characteristics, and they cannot be directly modified or used in certain operations.
  Cause:
  The error occurs when you attempt to perform an action (like creating or modifying a characteristic) on a reference characteristic. Reference characteristics are typically used to maintain consistency across different InfoObjects and are not meant to be altered directly.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, consider the following steps:
  
  
  Identify the Reference Characteristic: Determine which characteristic is causing the error. You can do this by checking the characteristic's properties in the SAP BW modeling tools.
  
  
  Use the Base Characteristic: Instead of trying to modify the reference characteristic, you should work with the base characteristic that it references. This is the characteristic that holds the actual data.
  
  
  Check the InfoObject Settings: If you need to change the properties of the reference characteristic, you may need to adjust the settings of the base characteristic instead.
  
  
  Review the Data Model: Ensure that your data model is designed correctly. If you need to create a new characteristic, consider whether it should be a reference characteristic or a standalone one.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for more detailed information on how to work with reference characteristics and their intended use.
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support or consulting with a BW expert who can provide guidance based on your specific scenario.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Reference Characteristics: These are used to maintain a consistent set of values across multiple InfoObjects. They are often used in scenarios where multiple characteristics share the same set of values.
  InfoObjects: In SAP BW, InfoObjects are the building blocks of the data model. They can be characteristics (like customer, product) or key figures (like sales amount).
  Data Modeling in SAP BW: Understanding how to model data in SAP BW is crucial for effective reporting and analysis. Familiarize yourself with the concepts of InfoObjects, InfoProviders, and data flows.
  
  By following these steps and understanding the context of reference characteristics, you should be able to address the CLBW018 error effectively.