How To Fix KQ338 - Use the same switch setting for overhead costs as for process costs

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KQ - Error Messages for Customizing Product Costing

• Message number: 338

• Message text: Use the same switch setting for overhead costs as for process costs

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KQ338 - Use the same switch setting for overhead costs as for process costs ?

  The SAP error message KQ338, which states "Use the same switch setting for overhead costs as for process costs," typically arises in the context of controlling and cost accounting within SAP, particularly when dealing with cost center accounting or internal orders.
  Cause:
  This error occurs when there is a mismatch in the configuration settings for overhead costs and process costs in the system. Specifically, it indicates that the system expects the same settings (switches) to be applied for both overhead and process costs, but they are currently set differently. This can happen due to:
  
  Configuration Inconsistencies: Different settings in the controlling area or cost element settings for overhead and process costs.
  Master Data Issues: The master data for cost centers, internal orders, or other relevant objects may not be aligned.
  System Upgrades or Changes: Changes made during system upgrades or configuration changes that were not uniformly applied.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you should take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Configuration Settings:
  
  Go to the configuration settings in SAP (Transaction code SPRO).
  Navigate to the relevant sections for controlling (e.g., Cost Center Accounting, Internal Orders).
  Ensure that the switch settings for overhead costs and process costs are consistent.
  
  
  
  Review Cost Element Settings:
  
  Check the cost elements involved in the transactions that triggered the error.
  Ensure that the settings for these cost elements are aligned for both overhead and process costs.
  
  
  
  Master Data Alignment:
  
  Review the master data for cost centers and internal orders to ensure that they are set up correctly and consistently.
  Make any necessary adjustments to align the settings.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on the configuration settings related to overhead and process costs.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making changes, perform tests to ensure that the error no longer occurs and that the system behaves as expected.
  
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after checking the configurations and master data, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as KSB1 (Cost Centers: Actual Line Items), KOB1 (Orders: Actual Line Items), and OKKP (Controlling Area).
  Documentation: Review SAP Help Portal or SAP Notes related to controlling and cost accounting for additional insights and troubleshooting steps.
  User Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the KQ338 error in your SAP system.