How To Fix COM_DML_ENGINE034 - Hierarchy must be cycle-free

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: COM_DML_ENGINE - MDF Processing Layer

• Message number: 034

• Message text: Hierarchy must be cycle-free

What causes this issue?

In a hierarchy, an object may not be assigned to itself. This also
applies to indirect assignments across intermediate levels.

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 COM_DML_ENGINE034 - Hierarchy must be cycle-free ?

  The SAP error message COM_DML_ENGINE034: Hierarchy must be cycle-free typically occurs in the context of working with hierarchical data structures in SAP, such as when dealing with master data, organizational structures, or other hierarchical relationships. This error indicates that there is a cycle or loop in the hierarchy, which violates the requirement for a tree structure where each node (or element) must have a single parent and cannot point back to itself or create a loop.
  Cause:
  
  Cyclic Relationships: The most common cause of this error is the presence of cyclic relationships in the hierarchy. For example, if node A points to node B as its parent, and node B points back to node A, this creates a cycle.
  Incorrect Data Entry: During the creation or modification of hierarchical data, incorrect entries may lead to cycles being formed.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from another system, it may not adhere to the cycle-free requirement, especially if the data integrity was not maintained during the migration process.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Hierarchical Structure: Examine the hierarchy to identify any cycles. You can do this by visualizing the hierarchy or using tools within SAP to analyze the relationships.
  Correct Data Relationships: Once cycles are identified, correct the relationships by ensuring that each node has a single parent and does not point back to any of its ancestors.
  Data Validation: Implement validation checks before saving or updating hierarchical data to prevent cycles from being created in the first place.
  Use SAP Tools: Utilize SAP tools or transaction codes that help in managing hierarchies, such as transaction codes for maintaining master data or organizational structures, to ensure that the data adheres to the required structure.
  Testing: After making changes, test the hierarchy to ensure that it is cycle-free and that the error does not reoccur.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for specific guidelines on managing hierarchies in the context of the module you are working with (e.g., SAP Master Data Governance, SAP BW, etc.).
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that can help you manage and visualize hierarchies, such as SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE80 (Object Navigator), or specific transaction codes for the module in question.
  Community Forums: Check SAP Community forums or other user groups for similar issues and solutions shared by other users who have encountered the same error.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the COM_DML_ENGINE034 error and ensure that your hierarchical data remains cycle-free.