How To Fix DDLS257 - CASE (&): Function & does not return a valid data type

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DDLS - For DDL source handling

• Message number: 257

• Message text: CASE (&): Function & does not return a valid data type

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DDLS257 - CASE (&): Function & does not return a valid data type ?

  The SAP error message DDLS257 indicates that there is an issue with a function in your ABAP code or database view that is expected to return a valid data type, but it does not. This error typically arises in the context of Data Definition Language (DDL) operations, such as when creating or modifying database objects.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Function Return Type: The function being called does not return a data type that is compatible with the expected return type in the context where it is being used.
  Function Definition Issues: The function might not be defined correctly, or it may not be returning a value at all.
  Data Type Mismatch: There could be a mismatch between the expected data type and the actual data type returned by the function.
  Function Not Found: The function might not exist in the database or is not accessible in the current context.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Function Definition: Review the function definition to ensure that it is correctly defined and that it returns a valid data type. Make sure that the return type matches what is expected in the context where it is being used.
  Validate Data Types: Ensure that the data types used in the function and the calling context are compatible. You may need to cast or convert data types appropriately.
  Debugging: If possible, debug the function to see what it is returning. This can help identify if the function is not returning a value or returning an unexpected type.
  Check for Existence: Ensure that the function exists in the database and is accessible. You can do this by checking the function in the relevant schema or package.
  Review Calling Context: Look at the context in which the function is being called. Ensure that it is being called correctly and that any parameters being passed are valid.
  
  Related Information:
  
  ABAP Documentation: Refer to the SAP ABAP documentation for details on function modules and their return types.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Community Forums: Look for discussions in SAP community forums or Stack Overflow where similar issues may have been addressed.
  Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like SE37 (Function Builder) to examine the function module and SE80 (Object Navigator) to explore related objects.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the DDLS257 error in your SAP environment.