How To Fix ESH_OM_OBJ_MODEL_REP696 - Remove child categories of non-editable software components first

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ESH_OM_OBJ_MODEL_REP - Object Model Repository

• Message number: 696

• Message text: Remove child categories of non-editable software components first

What causes this issue?

You want to delete a category with all its child categories. One of the
child categories, on any level of the category hierarchy, is owned by a
software component that cannot be edited in this system, therefore it
cannot be deleted. Before deleting the category, delete the assignment
of the child categories belonging to such non-editable software
components.

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 ESH_OM_OBJ_MODEL_REP696 - Remove child categories of non-editable software components first ?

  The SAP error message ESH_OM_OBJ_MODEL_REP696 typically occurs in the context of managing software components within the SAP Enterprise Search (SAP ESH) or related object model frameworks. This error indicates that you are trying to delete or modify a parent category that has child categories associated with it, and those child categories are part of non-editable software components.
  Cause:
  The error arises when:
  
  You attempt to delete or modify a parent category that has child categories.
  The child categories belong to software components that are marked as non-editable, meaning they cannot be altered or removed directly.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify Child Categories: Determine which child categories are associated with the parent category you are trying to modify or delete. You can usually find this information in the SAP GUI or relevant transaction codes.
  
  
  Remove or Edit Child Categories: 
  
  If the child categories are editable, you can remove them first. Navigate to the child categories and delete them.
  If the child categories are non-editable, you will need to check if there is a way to make them editable or if they can be managed through a different process. This may involve changing the configuration or settings of the software components.
  
  
  
  Check Software Component Settings: Review the settings of the software components to see if they can be modified. If they are part of a standard SAP delivery, you may need to consult with your SAP Basis or development team to understand the implications of changing these settings.
  
  
  Retry the Operation: Once you have removed or managed the child categories, you can attempt to delete or modify the parent category again.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes and Documentation: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might provide additional context or solutions for this error. SAP Notes often contain patches or workarounds for known issues.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes related to the object model and software component management, such as SE80 (Object Navigator) or SE11 (Data Dictionary).
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums or support channels to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance, providing them with detailed information about the error and the steps you have already taken.