How To Fix DMEE338 - Node &1: segment's first subnode must be element/composite/technical node

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DMEE - Messages for Data Medium Exchange Engine

• Message number: 338

• Message text: Node &1: segment's first subnode must be element/composite/technical node

What causes this issue?

Each segment must contain at least one element/technical node or one
composite as a subnode. Segments for which the <DS:DE.DMEE_FL2>"Output
Delayed Segment at This Position"</> indicator is set represent the
exception: they have no subnodes.

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?

If you only wish to group segments and segment groups under a node,
then use a segment group instead of a segment.

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 DMEE338 - Node &1: segment's first subnode must be element/composite/technical node ?

  The SAP error message DMEE338 indicates an issue with the structure of a DMEE (Data Medium Exchange Engine) format tree. Specifically, it points out that the first subnode of a specified segment must be an element, composite, or technical node. This error typically arises when the DMEE format is not correctly defined according to the expected structure.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Node Structure: The first subnode of the segment is not defined as an element, composite, or technical node. This could happen if the node type is incorrectly set or if the node is missing.
  Misconfiguration: The DMEE format tree may have been misconfigured, leading to an invalid hierarchy.
  Version Compatibility: If you are using an older version of DMEE or have recently upgraded, there may be compatibility issues with the format definitions.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Node Definition:
  
  Open the DMEE format tree in the DMEE transaction (usually transaction code DMEE).
  Navigate to the segment that is causing the error (indicated by the node name in the error message).
  Ensure that the first subnode of the segment is defined as an element, composite, or technical node.
  
  
  
  Modify the Structure:
  
  If the first subnode is incorrectly defined, change its type to one of the acceptable types (element, composite, or technical).
  If the first subnode is missing, add a new node of the correct type.
  
  
  
  Validate the Format:
  
  After making changes, validate the DMEE format to ensure there are no other structural issues.
  Use the "Check" function in the DMEE transaction to identify any additional errors.
  
  
  
  Documentation and Help:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation for DMEE to understand the expected structure and node types.
  If needed, consult with your SAP support team or community forums for additional guidance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Node Types:
  
  Element Node: Represents a single data field.
  Composite Node: Can contain multiple elements or other composite nodes.
  Technical Node: Used for technical purposes, often for formatting or control.
  
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  DMEE: Main transaction for managing DMEE formats.
  SE11: Data Dictionary, useful for checking data structures.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address known issues or provide additional guidance on DMEE configurations.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DMEE338 error and ensure that your DMEE format is correctly structured.