How To Fix KW388 - The reference template cannot be copied

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 388

• Message text: The reference template cannot be copied

What causes this issue?

Environment &V2& of the reference template is not compatible with
environment &V1& of the newly created templates.

System Response

The reference template cannot be used with the chosen environment of
the newly created template.

How to fix this error?

You can use templates as environment only under the following criteria:
Number and type of columns must be identical
Row types must be identical
The functions used in the reference template must also be allowed in
the new templates

Procedure for System Administrators

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KW388 - The reference template cannot be copied ?

  The SAP error message KW388, which states "The reference template cannot be copied," typically occurs in the context of SAP's Controlling (CO) module, particularly when dealing with cost planning or budgeting scenarios. This error indicates that there is an issue with copying a reference template, which is often used for planning purposes.
  Causes of KW388
  
  Template Not Found: The reference template you are trying to copy may not exist or may have been deleted.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access or copy the reference template.
  Template Status: The reference template might be in a status that does not allow it to be copied (e.g., it may be locked or marked as inactive).
  Data Inconsistencies: There may be inconsistencies or errors in the data associated with the reference template.
  Configuration Issues: There could be configuration settings in the system that prevent the copying of templates.
  
  Solutions to KW388
  
  
  Check Template Existence: Verify that the reference template you are trying to copy actually exists in the system. You can do this by navigating to the relevant transaction or using the appropriate report to list available templates.
  
  
  Review Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access and copy the template. This may involve checking user roles and permissions in the SAP system.
  
  
  Check Template Status: Look into the status of the reference template. If it is locked or inactive, you may need to unlock it or activate it before attempting to copy.
  
  
  Data Validation: Review the data associated with the reference template for any inconsistencies or errors. Correct any issues found.
  
  
  Consult Configuration Settings: If the problem persists, consult with your SAP Basis or configuration team to review any settings that might be affecting the copying of templates.
  
  
  Use Alternative Methods: If copying the template is not possible, consider creating a new template manually based on the existing one, if that is feasible.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as KP06 (Cost Center Planning) or KP26 (Activity Type Planning) where templates are often used.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to cost planning and templates for additional insights and best practices.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to reach out to SAP support or your internal SAP support team for further assistance.