How To Fix KE786 - Error in the definition of the time fields

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KE -

• Message number: 786

• Message text: Error in the definition of the time fields

What causes this issue?

Errors were found in the definition of the time fields.

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?

In order to activate the summarization levels correctly, the system
requires that one or more time fields exist.
These are tje fields GJAHR and PERDE, as well as ALTPERIO if you are
using the alternative period type in the operating concern.
Three combinations of these fields are allowed in the definition of a
summarization level:
only GJAHR and PERDE (fiscal year and period)
only ALTPERIO (week/year)
GJAHR, PERDE and ALTPERIO
If the alternative period type is not active, the system does not let
you select the field ALTPERIO. In this case, choose GJAHR and PERDE by
entering * or a fixed value.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KE786 - Error in the definition of the time fields ?

  The SAP error message KE786, which states "Error in the definition of the time fields," typically occurs in the context of controlling (CO) module transactions, particularly when dealing with time-related data in cost center accounting, internal orders, or other related areas.
  Cause:
  The error usually arises due to one or more of the following reasons:
  
  
  Incorrect Time Field Configuration: The time fields in the controlling area or the relevant master data (like cost centers or internal orders) may not be configured correctly. This could include issues with the time unit definitions or the way time-related data is structured.
  
  
  Missing or Inconsistent Data: There may be missing or inconsistent data in the time fields that are required for the transaction you are trying to execute. This could be due to incomplete master data or incorrect entries in the relevant tables.
  
  
  Custom Development Issues: If there are custom programs or enhancements that manipulate time fields, they may not be handling the data correctly, leading to this error.
  
  
  Version Compatibility: If there are discrepancies between the versions of SAP or the components being used, it could lead to issues with how time fields are defined or processed.
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the KE786 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Configuration: Review the configuration settings for the controlling area and ensure that all time fields are defined correctly. This includes checking the time units and ensuring they are consistent across all relevant master data.
  
  
  Validate Master Data: Ensure that all relevant master data (cost centers, internal orders, etc.) is complete and correctly defined. Look for any missing entries or inconsistencies in the time fields.
  
  
  Review Custom Code: If there are any custom developments or enhancements, review the code to ensure that it correctly handles time fields and adheres to the expected data formats.
  
  
  Check for Notes and Patches: Look for any SAP Notes or patches that may address this specific error. Sometimes, SAP releases updates that fix known issues related to error messages.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for additional guidance on the specific configuration and data requirements for the time fields in your context.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. They can provide more detailed insights based on your specific system configuration and version.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as KSB1 (Cost Centers: Actual Line Items) or KOB1 (Orders: Actual Line Items) to analyze the data related to the error.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums where other users may have encountered similar issues and can share their solutions.
  Documentation: Review SAP Help Portal for detailed documentation on controlling and time field configurations.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the underlying cause of the KE786 error in your SAP system.