How To Fix K6398 - Attribute &1 is used as a step by attribute &2 (characteristic &3)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: K6 - EC-EIS/EC-BP data basis: Data entry and collection

• Message number: 398

• Message text: Attribute &1 is used as a step by attribute &2 (characteristic &3)

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message K6398 - Attribute &1 is used as a step by attribute &2 (characteristic &3) ?

  The SAP error message K6398 indicates that there is an issue with the use of attributes in a characteristic structure, particularly in the context of Profitability Analysis (CO-PA) or other related modules. This error typically arises when an attribute is being used in a way that conflicts with its intended use in a step-by-step calculation or assignment.
  Cause:
  The error message K6398 is triggered when:
  
  An attribute (denoted as &1) is being used in a step that is defined by another attribute (denoted as &2) for a characteristic (denoted as &3).
  This can happen if the attribute is not properly defined or if there is a logical inconsistency in how the attributes are being utilized in the calculation steps.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Attribute Definitions: 
  
  Go to the configuration settings for the characteristics and attributes in the relevant module (e.g., CO-PA).
  Ensure that the attributes are correctly defined and that they are being used in the appropriate context.
  
  
  
  Review Calculation Steps:
  
  Examine the calculation steps where the error occurs. Look for any inconsistencies in how attributes are being referenced.
  Make sure that the attributes are not being used in a way that violates the logical flow of the calculations.
  
  
  
  Adjust Attribute Usage:
  
  If necessary, modify the usage of the attributes in the calculation steps. This may involve changing the sequence of steps or reassigning attributes to different characteristics.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on the use of attributes in your version of SAP. This can provide insights into best practices and common pitfalls.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making changes, test the configuration to ensure that the error is resolved and that the calculations are functioning as expected.
  
  
  
  Seek Expert Help:
  
  If the issue persists, consider reaching out to an SAP consultant or support team who can provide specialized assistance based on your specific configuration and requirements.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional context.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes related to CO-PA and attribute management, such as KE4S (for CO-PA planning) or KEB1 (for attribute maintenance).
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the K6398 error and implement a solution to resolve it.