How To Fix /MOC/OBJECT520 - Change of activity type not allowed; new type has a different category

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /MOC/OBJECT -

• Message number: 520

• Message text: Change of activity type not allowed; new type has a different category

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /MOC/OBJECT520 - Change of activity type not allowed; new type has a different category ?

  The SAP error message /MOC/OBJECT520 Change of activity type not allowed; new type has a different category typically occurs in the context of SAP Project System (PS) or SAP Controlling (CO) when there is an attempt to change the activity type of a project or cost object to a type that belongs to a different category. This can happen when the system enforces rules regarding the types of activities that can be assigned to certain categories, such as labor, material, or overhead.
  Cause:
  
  Different Activity Categories: The new activity type you are trying to assign belongs to a different category than the existing one. For example, you might be trying to change a labor activity type to a material activity type.
  Configuration Settings: The configuration settings in the system may restrict changes between different categories of activity types.
  Data Integrity Rules: SAP has built-in data integrity rules that prevent changes that could lead to inconsistencies in reporting or cost allocation.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Activity Type Categories: Verify the categories of both the existing and new activity types. Ensure that they belong to the same category before attempting to make the change.
  Use a Compatible Activity Type: If you need to change the activity type, select one that belongs to the same category as the current one.
  Consult Configuration: If you believe the change should be allowed, consult with your SAP configuration team to review the settings related to activity types and categories. They may need to adjust the configuration if there is a valid business case for allowing such changes.
  Create a New Activity: If changing the activity type is not possible, consider creating a new activity with the desired type and then transferring any necessary data or costs to this new activity.
  Documentation and Training: Ensure that users are aware of the restrictions and the correct procedures for changing activity types to avoid similar issues in the future.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message. Sometimes, SAP releases notes that provide additional context or solutions for specific issues.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CJ20N (Project Builder) or CJI3 (Project Actual Line Items) to analyze the project structure and activity types.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Ensure that the user attempting to make the change has the necessary authorizations to modify activity types.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with SAP support or your internal SAP team for further assistance.