How To Fix KW018 - Hierarchy is at present blocked against changes

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KW - CO-ABC Activity-Based Costing

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Hierarchy is at present blocked against changes

What causes this issue?

Either the process group or the entire standard hierarchy is being used
by user &v1& at present. You cannot assign a process to another group
or recreate a process because the standard hierarchy must be locked for
use by other users when you make your changes.

System Response

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?

Check whether you are locking yourself (by working on the object in
another screen) or wait until the user is finished.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KW018 - Hierarchy is at present blocked against changes ?

  The SAP error message KW018, which states "Hierarchy is at present blocked against changes," typically occurs in the context of SAP Controlling (CO) when you attempt to make changes to a hierarchy that is currently locked for modifications. This can happen for various reasons, such as:
  Causes:
  
  Active Planning or Reporting: The hierarchy may be in use for planning or reporting purposes, which can lock it against changes.
  User Lock: Another user may have locked the hierarchy for editing.
  Transaction in Progress: A transaction that involves the hierarchy might be in progress, preventing changes.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to make changes to the hierarchy.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check for Active Processes: Ensure that no planning or reporting processes are currently using the hierarchy. If they are, wait until they are completed.
  User Lock Check: Use transaction code SM12 to check for any user locks on the hierarchy. If you find a lock that is no longer needed, you can delete it (if you have the necessary authorizations).
  Review Authorizations: Ensure that you have the appropriate authorizations to modify the hierarchy. You may need to contact your SAP security team if you suspect authorization issues.
  Transaction Monitoring: Use transaction code SM37 to check for any background jobs that might be using the hierarchy. If you find any, you may need to wait for them to complete or cancel them if appropriate.
  Hierarchy Status: Check the status of the hierarchy in the relevant transaction (e.g., KSH1 for creating a cost center hierarchy) to see if it is marked as "blocked" and if so, determine the reason.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as KSH1 (Create Cost Center Hierarchy), KSH2 (Change Cost Center Hierarchy), and KSH3 (Display Cost Center Hierarchy).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. You can search for KW018 in the SAP Support Portal.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to hierarchy management in the Controlling module for best practices and guidelines.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis or technical support team for further investigation.