How To Fix KN196 - This comparison value requires the entry of two costing runs

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KN - Reporting for Costing

• Message number: 196

• Message text: This comparison value requires the entry of two costing runs

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KN196 - This comparison value requires the entry of two costing runs ?

  The SAP error message KN196, which states "This comparison value requires the entry of two costing runs," typically occurs in the context of cost accounting or product costing within the SAP system. This error indicates that a comparison is being attempted between two different costing runs, but one or both of the required costing runs have not been specified.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Costing Runs: The most common cause of this error is that the user has not entered both costing runs needed for the comparison. In SAP, certain transactions or reports require two distinct costing runs to perform a comparison (e.g., comparing planned costs against actual costs).
  Incorrect Configuration: There may be a configuration issue in the system that prevents the proper identification of costing runs.
  Data Entry Error: The user may have made a mistake while entering the costing run data, such as entering an invalid or non-existent costing run.
  
  Solution:
  
  Enter Both Costing Runs: Ensure that both costing runs are entered correctly in the relevant fields. Check that you are using the correct costing run numbers.
  Verify Costing Run Existence: Confirm that the costing runs you are trying to compare actually exist in the system. You can do this by navigating to the relevant transaction or report and checking the list of available costing runs.
  Check Configuration: If you suspect a configuration issue, consult with your SAP administrator or a functional consultant to ensure that the system is set up correctly for cost comparisons.
  Review Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for the specific transaction or report you are using to ensure you are following the correct procedure for entering costing runs.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CK11N (Create Cost Estimate), CK40N (Costing Run), and CK24 (Display Costing Run) to manage costing runs effectively.
  Costing Variants: Understand the costing variants and their settings, as they can affect how costing runs are created and compared.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message, as they may provide additional insights or fixes for known issues.
  User Training: Ensure that users involved in cost accounting are adequately trained on how to enter and manage costing runs to minimize errors.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the KN196 error and successfully perform the necessary cost comparisons in SAP.