How To Fix CM_SUB_DATA038 - Deleting inherited identifiers is not permitted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CM_SUB_DATA - Substance Data (Header, ID, Reference, Materials)

• Message number: 038

• Message text: Deleting inherited identifiers is not permitted

What causes this issue?

You attempted to delete an identifier that is inherited from another
specification. This is not permitted.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CM_SUB_DATA038 - Deleting inherited identifiers is not permitted ?

  The SAP error message CM_SUB_DATA038 ("Deleting inherited identifiers is not permitted") typically occurs in the context of managing classification data in SAP, particularly when dealing with characteristics and their values in the classification system.
  Cause:
  This error arises when you attempt to delete a characteristic or identifier that is inherited from a higher-level object or class. In SAP's classification system, certain characteristics can be inherited from parent classes or objects, and the system prevents the deletion of these inherited identifiers to maintain data integrity and consistency.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Inheritance: Verify if the characteristic you are trying to delete is indeed inherited from a parent class or object. You can do this by checking the classification hierarchy.
  
  
  Modify Instead of Delete: If you need to change the characteristic, consider modifying its attributes or values instead of deleting it. This way, you can achieve your goal without violating the inheritance rules.
  
  
  Remove Inheritance: If you must delete the characteristic, you may need to first remove the inheritance link. This can typically be done by:
  
  Navigating to the parent class or object.
  Modifying the classification settings to remove the characteristic from the parent.
  Once the characteristic is no longer inherited, you should be able to delete it from the child class or object.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific instructions related to your version of SAP and the classification system you are using.
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal SAP team for assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Classification System: Understand how the classification system works in SAP, including the concepts of classes, characteristics, and values.
  Data Integrity: Familiarize yourself with the importance of data integrity in SAP, especially in relation to inherited data.
  Transaction Codes: Common transaction codes related to classification include:
  
  CL02: Change Class
  CL03: Display Class
  CL01: Create Class
  
  
  User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to classification data.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the CM_SUB_DATA038 error effectively.