How To Fix KU120 - Initial node longer than entire hierarchy

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KU - Costing: Rollup

• Message number: 120

• Message text: Initial node longer than entire hierarchy

What causes this issue?

You entered a hierarchy node which exceeds the total hierarchy as
defined in customizing.
This hierarchy length (that is, the controlling area plus nodes) is
defined in the hierarchy ID.

How to fix this error?

Delete the entry for the hierarchy node.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KU120 - Initial node longer than entire hierarchy ?

  The SAP error message KU120, which states "Initial node longer than entire hierarchy," typically occurs in the context of SAP's Controlling (CO) module, particularly when dealing with hierarchies in cost centers, profit centers, or other organizational structures.
  Cause:
  This error usually arises when there is a mismatch in the hierarchy structure. Specifically, it indicates that the initial node (the starting point of the hierarchy) is defined in a way that exceeds the total length or structure of the hierarchy itself. This can happen due to:
  
  Incorrect Hierarchy Definition: The initial node may be incorrectly defined or may not exist in the hierarchy.
  Data Inconsistencies: There may be inconsistencies in the data that define the hierarchy, such as missing nodes or incorrect relationships between nodes.
  Configuration Issues: There could be issues in the configuration settings related to the hierarchy in the SAP system.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the KU120 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Hierarchy Definition:
  
  Go to the relevant transaction (e.g., KSH1 for cost center hierarchy) and verify the definition of the hierarchy.
  Ensure that the initial node is correctly defined and exists within the hierarchy.
  
  
  
  Review Hierarchy Structure:
  
  Use transaction codes like KSH2 (Display Cost Center Hierarchy) or KSH3 (Display Cost Center Hierarchy) to review the structure of the hierarchy.
  Ensure that all nodes are correctly linked and that there are no missing nodes.
  
  
  
  Validate Data:
  
  Check for any inconsistencies in the data that may be causing the issue. This includes verifying that all nodes are active and correctly assigned.
  
  
  
  Recreate Hierarchy:
  
  If the hierarchy is significantly corrupted, consider recreating it from scratch. This can sometimes be the quickest way to resolve complex issues.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on hierarchy management in your version of SAP.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes for managing hierarchies, such as KSH1, KSH2, KSH3, and others related to your specific module.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  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 KU120 error in your SAP system.