How To Fix GLT1406 - Making subsequent changes to characteristics can lead to inconsistencies

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GLT1 - Split processor: Maintain control tables

• Message number: 406

• Message text: Making subsequent changes to characteristics can lead to inconsistencies

What causes this issue?

In a <ZH>production system</>, the <ZH>subsequent </>inclusion of
document splitting characteristics or a <ZH>subsequent </>change to the
properties of the document splitting characteristics can cause
<ZH>serious inconsistencies</> in document processing. Note that the
changes to the Customizing settings do not make corresponding
adjustments to any transaction data already present prior to the
activation of document splitting.
&DEPENDENCIES&
If you add a new document splitting characteristic subsequently or
change the properties of a characteristic subsequently, this change is
only applied <ZH>from the point in time when the change is made</>. If
there is transaction data in the current system or in the target system
for this change to the Customizing settings, the following points must
be considered:
Since there has not been an account assignment projection corresponding
to the new characteristics added or to the changed characteristics for
the documents posted previously, account assignments cannot be made
completely for the documents already entered in the system. The actual
changes to the Customizing settings do not make corresponding adjus
tments to any transaction data already present prior to the activation
of document splitting. Consequently, the follow-on processes for
documents that already exist do not have complete account assignments
either.
If the <ZH>check on the required entry fields</> is activated for the
characteristic, the subsequently performed change can cause error
messages to be issued in follow-on processes involving documents that
have already been posted but contain insufficient account assignments.
We therefore <ZH>advise against</> the subsequent activation of the
check on required entry fields.

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

<ZH>Example:</>
The payment run ends with an error message because of a failed check on
the required entry fields. The document posted before the change to the
Customizing settings cannot be processed further. The payment run, the
manual payment <ZH>with clearing</>, or the reversal of such legacy
documents cannot be performed.
Processes with incomplete account assignments affect not only FI but
also other applications that make postings. An order with incomplete
account assignments can cause an error message to be issued in a follow
-on process in Logistics that is triggered after the check on required
entry fields has been activated. The follow-on process in Logistics
cannot be performed.
If the new characteristic added or an existing characteristic is
subsequently marked as <ZH>balancing</>, it is important to note that,
due to the fact that the zero balance checked was not yet activated, the
system was previously technically unable to ensure that individual
postings relating to this characteristic balance. By simply activating
this characteristic, it is <ZH>not </>possible to achieve a balance
sheet with a zero balance for this characteristic.
If you subsequently undo the definition of the document splitting
characteristics or delete an existing characteristic, the corresponding
characteristic is no longer updated or checked only from this point in
time. Note that this change also does not make corresponding adjustments
to any transaction data already present.

System Response

<ZH>If production data has already been entered in the system, we
recommend not making subsequent changes to the Customizing settings if
possible</>. However, if the change is required, you need to perform a
check on the data posted previously to ensure that subsequent problems
do not occur in production systems.

How to fix this error?

Check whether the desired changes to the Customizing settings are
essential. Ensure that the changes you make to the Customizing settings
do not have any critical consequences. For detailed information on this
subject, see <ZH>SAP Note 891144</>.
Any transaction data present must also be converted accordingly. Note
that there are currently no standardized migration tools available for
converting transaction data that has already been posted. For detailed
and up-to-date information on this subject, see <ZH>SAP Note 812919</>.

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 GLT1406 - Making subsequent changes to characteristics can lead to inconsistencies ?

  The SAP error message GLT1406, which states "Making subsequent changes to characteristics can lead to inconsistencies," typically occurs in the context of the SAP General Ledger (GL) or when dealing with characteristics in the context of reporting or data analysis. This error is a warning that indicates that changes made to certain characteristics (like account assignments, cost centers, or other attributes) after initial postings can lead to inconsistencies in the data.
  Cause:
  
  Subsequent Changes: The error is triggered when there are attempts to change characteristics of a document or transaction that has already been posted. This can happen if you try to modify attributes that are critical for the integrity of financial reporting or data consistency.
  Data Integrity: SAP has built-in checks to ensure that the integrity of financial data is maintained. Changing characteristics after posting can lead to discrepancies in reports, balances, or other financial statements.
  Configuration Issues: Sometimes, the error can arise from incorrect configuration settings in the system that allow for changes to be made inappropriately.
  
  Solution:
  
  Avoid Changes to Posted Documents: The best practice is to avoid making changes to characteristics of documents that have already been posted. If changes are necessary, consider reversing the original transaction and posting a new one with the correct characteristics.
  Use Document Reversal: If you need to correct a posted document, use the reversal functionality to create a new document with the correct characteristics instead of modifying the existing one.
  Consult with SAP Support: If the error persists or if you believe it is occurring inappropriately, consult with SAP support or your internal SAP team to investigate the specific circumstances and determine if there are configuration adjustments that can be made.
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings related to document posting and characteristics in your SAP system. Ensure that the settings align with your business processes and do not allow for inappropriate changes.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for more details on the specific transaction or module you are working with. This can provide insights into best practices and guidelines for handling characteristics.
  User Exits and BAdIs: If you have custom developments, check if there are any user exits or BAdIs that might be affecting the behavior of characteristic changes.
  Training: Ensure that users are trained on the implications of changing characteristics after posting and the correct procedures to follow.
  
  By following these guidelines, you can mitigate the risk of encountering the GLT1406 error and maintain the integrity of your financial data in SAP.