How To Fix COM_HIERARCHY018 - Hierarchy &1 contains errors (see application log) and cannot be saved

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: COM_HIERARCHY - Hierarchy

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Hierarchy &1 contains errors (see application log) and cannot be saved

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message COM_HIERARCHY018 - Hierarchy &1 contains errors (see application log) and cannot be saved ?

  The SAP error message COM_HIERARCHY018 indicates that there are errors in a hierarchy that prevent it from being saved. This error typically occurs in the context of SAP Controlling (CO) when working with hierarchical structures, such as cost center hierarchies, profit center hierarchies, or other organizational structures.
  Cause
  The error can be caused by several factors, including:
  
  Invalid Hierarchy Structure: The hierarchy may contain nodes that are incorrectly defined or linked, such as circular references or missing parent nodes.
  Inconsistent Data: There may be inconsistencies in the data associated with the hierarchy nodes, such as missing attributes or incorrect data types.
  Application Log Errors: The application log may contain specific error messages that provide more details about what is wrong with the hierarchy.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to create or modify the hierarchy.
  
  Solution
  To resolve the error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Check the Application Log: 
  
  Use transaction code SLG1 to view the application log. Filter by the relevant object and check for specific error messages that provide more details about the issues in the hierarchy.
  
  
  
  Validate Hierarchy Structure:
  
  Review the hierarchy structure for any inconsistencies. Ensure that all nodes are correctly defined and that there are no circular references or missing parent nodes.
  
  
  
  Correct Data Issues:
  
  Ensure that all required attributes for each node in the hierarchy are filled out correctly. Check for any data type mismatches or missing information.
  
  
  
  Test Changes:
  
  After making corrections, attempt to save the hierarchy again. If the error persists, recheck the application log for any new messages.
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to create or modify the hierarchy. If not, consult with your SAP security team to obtain the required permissions.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for additional guidance on hierarchy management and troubleshooting.
  
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as KSH1 (Create Cost Center Hierarchy), KSH2 (Change Cost Center Hierarchy), and KSH3 (Display Cost Center Hierarchy).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to hierarchy management that may address this error.
  Support: If the issue persists after following the above steps, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issues causing the COM_HIERARCHY018 error.