How To Fix K9170 - Please define a data column for element "&".

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: K9 - CO Planning Processor

• Message number: 170

• Message text: Please define a data column for element "&".

What causes this issue?

You defined element &V1& as a distribution key, an action field, and/or
a unit field.
These attribute columns require direct reference to a data column. The
SAP System therefore checks whether a data column with identical
characteristics and characteristic values exists.
There is no such column in your planning layout.

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?

Define a corresponding data column.
An attribute column is best defined with the menu path <ZH>Edit ->
Columns -> Attach add. fields</>.
This ensures consistency with the corresponding data column.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message K9170 - Please define a data column for element "&". ?

  The SAP error message K9170, which states "Please define a data column for element '&'", typically occurs in the context of SAP Controlling (CO) when working with reports or data structures that require specific definitions for data columns. This error indicates that the system is expecting a data column definition for a particular element, but it has not been provided.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Data Column Definition: The most common cause of this error is that the data column for the specified element has not been defined in the report or data structure you are trying to use.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the configuration of the report or the data structure, such as missing settings or incorrect parameters.
  Custom Development: If there are custom reports or enhancements, the error may arise from missing definitions in the custom code.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Define the Data Column:
  
  Go to the relevant configuration area in SAP where the report or data structure is defined.
  Locate the section for defining data columns and ensure that a data column is defined for the element indicated in the error message.
  If you are using a standard report, check the report settings to ensure that all required fields are included.
  
  
  
  Check Report Configuration:
  
  If you are using a custom report, review the code to ensure that all necessary data columns are defined and that they correspond to the elements being used in the report.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on how to define data columns for the specific report or data structure you are working with.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal SAP team for assistance. They may have additional insights or solutions based on your specific configuration.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may need to use transaction codes like KSB1 (for displaying actual line items), KOB1 (for displaying actual postings), or S_ALR_87013611 (for reports) to access the relevant reports or configurations.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance on configuring data columns.
  User Forums: Consider visiting 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 cause of the K9170 error and implement a solution to resolve it.