How To Fix KE853 - Different sorting characteristics are not allowed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KE -

• Message number: 853

• Message text: Different sorting characteristics are not allowed

What causes this issue?

The target operating concerns must have the same sorting
characteristics.

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?

Run the program separately for operating concerns with different
sorting characteristics.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KE853 - Different sorting characteristics are not allowed ?

  The SAP error message KE853 ("Different sorting characteristics are not allowed") typically occurs in the context of controlling (CO) when you are trying to perform a transaction that involves cost center accounting, internal orders, or profitability analysis. This error indicates that there is a mismatch in the sorting characteristics of the data you are trying to process.
  Cause:
  The error is usually caused by one of the following reasons:
  
  Inconsistent Data: The data being processed has different sorting characteristics (e.g., different characteristics for cost elements, cost centers, or internal orders) that cannot be combined in a single report or transaction.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration settings in the controlling area or the characteristics defined for the report or transaction may not align with the data being processed.
  Data Selection: The selection criteria used in the report or transaction may include multiple characteristics that are not compatible with each other.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the KE853 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Data Consistency:
  
  Review the data you are trying to process to ensure that all entries have consistent sorting characteristics. For example, if you are working with cost centers, ensure that all selected cost centers belong to the same controlling area and have the same characteristics.
  
  
  
  Review Report/Transaction Settings:
  
  If you are running a report, check the selection criteria and ensure that you are not mixing different characteristics that are not allowed together. Adjust the selection criteria to include only compatible characteristics.
  
  
  
  Configuration Review:
  
  Check the configuration settings in the controlling area. Ensure that the settings for sorting characteristics are correctly defined and that they match the data you are working with.
  
  
  
  Use Alternative Reports:
  
  If the report you are trying to run is not compatible with the data, consider using alternative reports or transactions that allow for the characteristics you need.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on the characteristics and sorting options available for the report or transaction you are using.
  
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal SAP team for further assistance. They may be able to provide insights based on the specific configuration and data in your system.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes in SAP CO, such as KSB1 (Cost Centers: Actual Line Items) or KOB1 (Orders: Actual Line Items), which may help in analyzing the data.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to the KE853 error for additional troubleshooting steps or patches that may address the issue.
  Training and Documentation: Consider training sessions or documentation on SAP CO to better understand sorting characteristics and how they impact reporting and data processing.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the KE853 error and implement a solution to resolve it.