How To Fix GS118 - Invalid change to an alternative hierarchy (see long text)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GS - Sets

• Message number: 118

• Message text: Invalid change to an alternative hierarchy (see long text)

What causes this issue?

You want to hang group &V1& under group &V2&. However, both groups also
exist in other hierarchies. If you carried out this change, group &V2&
would exist in at least one of these alternative hierarchies more than
once.

System Response

You cannot make this hierarchy change.

How to fix this error?

Check which hierarchies contain groups &V1& and &V2& (using the
where-used list). Change the hierarchies you find so that the change you
want to make to the current hierarchy is then possible.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GS118 - Invalid change to an alternative hierarchy (see long text) ?

  The SAP error message GS118 "Invalid change to an alternative hierarchy (see long text)" typically occurs when there is an attempt to make a change to an alternative hierarchy that is not allowed due to certain constraints or rules defined in the system. This error is often related to the management of master data in SAP, particularly in the context of controlling or financial reporting.
  Causes:
  
  Hierarchy Structure Issues: The change being attempted may violate the structure of the hierarchy. For example, you might be trying to assign a node to a parent that is not allowed.
  Locked Hierarchies: The hierarchy may be locked for changes due to ongoing processes or configurations that prevent modifications.
  Inconsistent Data: There may be inconsistencies in the data that prevent the change from being processed.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to make changes to the hierarchy.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration settings for the hierarchy may not allow the type of change being attempted.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Hierarchy Structure: Review the hierarchy structure to ensure that the change you are trying to make is valid. Make sure that the parent-child relationships are correctly defined.
  Unlock Hierarchy: If the hierarchy is locked, check with your system administrator to see if it can be unlocked or if the changes can be made at a different time.
  Data Consistency Check: Perform a consistency check on the data to identify any issues that may be causing the error. This may involve checking for duplicate entries or invalid relationships.
  Review Authorizations: Ensure that the user attempting to make the change has the necessary authorizations. If not, request the appropriate access from your security team.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the long text of the error message for specific details about what is causing the issue. This can provide insights into the exact nature of the problem.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as OKEQ (for managing alternative hierarchies) and OKEE (for editing hierarchies).
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message, as they may provide additional context or solutions.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation on alternative hierarchies and master data management for best practices and guidelines.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the GS118 error in your SAP system.