How To Fix FCO_COPA351 - Make sure that this field is not used in external reporting and processes

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FCO_COPA - SFIN message class for CO-PA relevant issues

• Message number: 351

• Message text: Make sure that this field is not used in external reporting and processes

What causes this issue?

You are attempting to delete a custom field that is used in Journal
Entries. Be aware that custom fields which are used in external
reporting should not normally be deleted.
Therefore, you need to make sure that this field does not appear in your
balance sheet or other financial statements, since deleting such a field
could have legal implications.
In addition<(>,<)> make sure that this Market Segment field does not
appear for example, in Open Realignment Runs, Assessment cycles etc.
specially in Production Systems.

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?

Please confirm or cancel the field deletion.

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 FCO_COPA351 - Make sure that this field is not used in external reporting and processes ?

  The SAP error message FCO_COPA351 typically indicates that a certain field in the Controlling Profitability Analysis (CO-PA) module is being used in a way that conflicts with external reporting requirements or processes. This error often arises when there are inconsistencies or misconfigurations in the settings related to the CO-PA fields.
  Cause:
  
  Field Usage: The field in question may be configured in a way that it is not allowed to be used in external reporting. This could be due to settings in the CO-PA configuration that restrict certain fields from being utilized in external reports.
  Data Model Configuration: The data model for CO-PA may not be aligned with the requirements for external reporting, leading to conflicts.
  Field Assignment: The field might be assigned to a characteristic that is not compatible with external reporting processes.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Field Configuration: Review the configuration of the field in the CO-PA settings. Ensure that it is not marked as restricted for external reporting.
  Adjust Data Model: If the data model is causing the issue, consider adjusting the configuration to ensure compatibility with external reporting requirements.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to CO-PA and external reporting to understand the specific requirements and restrictions for the fields in question.
  Field Mapping: Ensure that the field is correctly mapped to the appropriate characteristics and that it complies with the external reporting standards.
  Testing: After making changes, conduct thorough testing to ensure that the error does not reoccur and that the field can be used as intended in external reports.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional insights or solutions for this specific error message.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have implemented.
  Documentation: Review the SAP Help Portal for detailed information on CO-PA configuration and external reporting requirements.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with an SAP expert or your organization's SAP support team for further assistance.