How To Fix ECM_CUST005 - Deletion not possible (change type & is still in use)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ECM_CUST - Customizing for Engineering Change Management

• Message number: 005

• Message text: Deletion not possible (change type & is still in use)

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ECM_CUST005 - Deletion not possible (change type & is still in use) ?

  The SAP error message ECM_CUST005 indicates that a deletion operation cannot be performed because the change type specified is still in use. This typically occurs in the context of SAP's Engineering Change Management (ECM) module, where change types are used to manage and control changes to products or processes.
  Cause:
  The error arises when you attempt to delete a change type that is currently being referenced or utilized in one or more change documents or processes. This could happen if:
  
  The change type is linked to active engineering change orders (ECOs).
  There are existing records or transactions that depend on the change type.
  The change type is part of a workflow that is still active.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the ECM_CUST005 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Dependencies:
  
  Identify any active change documents or ECOs that are using the change type you are trying to delete. You can do this by using transaction codes like CC03 (Display Change Document) or CC01 (Create Change Document) to see if the change type is referenced.
  
  
  
  Close or Delete Dependent Objects:
  
  If you find that there are active change documents using the change type, you will need to either complete or delete those documents before you can delete the change type itself.
  
  
  
  Review Change Type Usage:
  
  Use transaction EC01 (Change Type Management) to review the change type and its usage. Ensure that it is not linked to any active processes.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Check the SAP documentation or your organization's internal guidelines for managing change types to ensure you are following the correct procedures.
  
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support:
  
  If you are unable to identify the dependencies or if the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP Notes for any known issues related to this error.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CC01, CC02, CC03, and EC01 for managing change documents and change types.
  SAP Notes: Search for SAP Notes related to ECM and the specific error message for additional troubleshooting steps or patches.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to delete change types and manage change documents.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the ECM_CUST005 error and successfully delete the change type if it is no longer in use.