How To Fix FINB_MSG_REPORTING005 - Internal error: The data reference is not a table with a flat structure

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FINB_MSG_REPORTING - Messages in Package FINB_REPORTING

• Message number: 005

• Message text: Internal error: The data reference is not a table with a flat structure

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message FINB_MSG_REPORTING005 - Internal error: The data reference is not a table with a flat structure ?

  The SAP error message FINB_MSG_REPORTING005 indicates that there is an internal error related to data processing, specifically that the data reference being used is not a table with a flat structure. This error typically arises in the context of reporting or data extraction processes within SAP, particularly in Financial Accounting (FI) or Controlling (CO) modules.
  Causes:
  
  
  Data Structure Issues: The data reference being accessed may be a complex structure (like a nested table or a structure with multiple levels) instead of a flat table. This can happen if the data model is not designed correctly or if the wrong data reference is being used in the report.
  
  
  Incorrect Query Design: If you are using a query or report that expects a flat structure but is provided with a complex structure, this error can occur.
  
  
  Custom Code Issues: If there is custom ABAP code involved in the report or data extraction, it may not be handling the data structures correctly.
  
  
  Data Source Configuration: The configuration of the data source in the reporting tool may not align with the expected data structure.
  
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Data Structure: Review the data structure being referenced in the report. Ensure that it is a flat structure and not a nested or complex one. If necessary, modify the data model to provide a flat structure.
  
  
  Modify Queries/Reports: If you are using a query or report, check the design to ensure that it is compatible with the data structure. You may need to redesign the query to accommodate the data format.
  
  
  Review Custom Code: If there is custom ABAP code involved, review it to ensure that it correctly handles the data structures. Look for any references to complex structures and modify them to work with flat structures.
  
  
  Data Source Configuration: Verify the configuration of the data source in the reporting tool. Ensure that it is set up to pull data from a flat structure.
  
  
  SAP Notes and Support: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error. Sometimes, SAP releases patches or notes that provide solutions or workarounds for known issues.
  
  
  Testing: After making changes, test the report or query to ensure that the error is resolved and that the data is being processed correctly.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP's official documentation for guidance on data structures and reporting.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found.
  Debugging: If you have access to the ABAP debugger, you can step through the code to identify where the error is occurring and gather more context about the data being processed.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.