How To Fix K0191 - Sub-hierarchy & cannot be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: K0 - Error Messages for Central Controlling Routines

• Message number: 191

• Message text: Sub-hierarchy & cannot be deleted

What causes this issue?

You attempted to delete sub-hierarchy &V1& in an alternative hierarchy.
Sub-hierarchy &V1& is part of the standard hierarchy or contains
elements of the standard hierarchy, and cannot be deleted.

System Response

Nothing is deleted.

How to fix this error?

You can only process the standard hierarchy directly with hierarchy
maintenance and not indirectly via alternative hierarchies.
Use <ZH>Detach</> if you only want to remove sub-hierarchy &V1& from
the alternative hierarchy. This does not affect the elements contained
in the standard hierarchy.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message K0191 - Sub-hierarchy & cannot be deleted ?

  The SAP error message K0191, which states "Sub-hierarchy & cannot be deleted," typically occurs in the context of controlling (CO) when you attempt to delete a cost center or a hierarchy node that has subordinate nodes or is part of a larger structure. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  
  Subordinate Nodes: The hierarchy node you are trying to delete has subordinate nodes (children) that must be deleted first.
  Dependencies: The node may be linked to other objects or processes in the system, such as cost elements, cost centers, or internal orders.
  Active Assignments: The node might have active assignments or transactions that prevent its deletion.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Subordinate Nodes: 
  
  Navigate to the hierarchy structure and identify any subordinate nodes. You will need to delete or move these nodes before you can delete the parent node.
  
  
  
  Delete or Reassign:
  
  If there are subordinate nodes, delete them first or reassign them to another hierarchy if applicable.
  Ensure that there are no active transactions or assignments linked to the node.
  
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes:
  
  Use transaction codes like KSH1 (Create Cost Center) or KSH2 (Change Cost Center) to manage the hierarchy and check for dependencies.
  Use KSH3 (Display Cost Center) to view the details of the cost center and its relationships.
  
  
  
  Check for Active Processes:
  
  Ensure that there are no ongoing processes or reports that are using the hierarchy node. If there are, you may need to wait until they are completed.
  
  
  
  Authorization:
  
  Ensure you have the necessary authorizations to delete the hierarchy node. Lack of permissions can also lead to errors.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help files for specific instructions related to your version of SAP, as the steps may vary slightly.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Hierarchy Management: Understanding how hierarchies work in SAP CO is crucial. Familiarize yourself with the structure and relationships of cost centers and other objects.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. Sometimes, specific versions of SAP may have bugs that are documented in SAP Notes.
  Testing in Development: If possible, test the deletion in a development or test environment before attempting it in production to avoid unintended consequences.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a consultant who specializes in SAP CO for further assistance.