How To Fix HRPAO_DY_CUST024 - Return type &1 of method &2 not valid; must be character-like

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: HRPAO_DY_CUST - Dynamic Processing: Customizing

• Message number: 024

• Message text: Return type &1 of method &2 not valid; must be character-like

What causes this issue?

The returning parameter must have one of these types:
Character
String
Data reference to character-like field

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 HRPAO_DY_CUST024 - Return type &1 of method &2 not valid; must be character-like ?

  The SAP error message HRPAO_DY_CUST024 indicates that there is an issue with the return type of a method in a custom ABAP program or enhancement. Specifically, the error states that the return type of the method is not valid and must be character-like. This typically occurs when the method is expected to return a string or character-like data type, but it is returning a different type, such as a numeric or complex data type.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Return Type: The method is defined with a return type that is not character-like (e.g., it might be defined to return a numeric type or a structure).
  Method Signature Mismatch: The method signature in the class or interface does not match the implementation, leading to a type mismatch.
  Data Type Definition: The data type used in the method's return statement is not compatible with the expected character-like types (e.g., CHAR, STRING, etc.).
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Method Definition: Review the method definition in the class or interface to ensure that the return type is defined as a character-like type (e.g., CHAR, STRING, etc.).
  Modify Implementation: If the implementation of the method is returning a different type, modify it to ensure that it returns a character-like type. For example, if it is returning a numeric value, convert it to a string using CONCATENATE or WRITE statements.
  Adjust Data Types: If the method is part of a larger program or module, ensure that all related data types are consistent and compatible with the expected return type.
  Check for Enhancements: If the method is part of a standard SAP program and has been enhanced, check the enhancement implementation for any discrepancies in return types.
  
  Related Information:
  
  ABAP Data Types: Familiarize yourself with the different data types in ABAP, especially character-like types such as CHAR, STRING, and C LENGTH.
  Debugging: Use the ABAP debugger to trace the execution of the method and identify where the return type is being set incorrectly.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the specific method or class you are working with.
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation for guidelines on method definitions and return types to ensure compliance with best practices.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the HRPAO_DY_CUST024 error and ensure that your method returns the correct character-like type as expected.