How To Fix MSG_CL_ER178 - Value &1 of Classification System &2(&3) is in use and can not be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MSG_CL_ER - Message Class for Enterprise Registry

• Message number: 178

• Message text: Value &1 of Classification System &2(&3) is in use and can not be deleted

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MSG_CL_ER178 - Value &1 of Classification System &2(&3) is in use and can not be deleted ?

  The SAP error message MSG_CL_ER178 indicates that you are trying to delete a classification system or a classification object that is currently in use. This means that there are existing assignments or dependencies that prevent the deletion of the specified classification system.
  Cause:
  
  Active Assignments: The classification system or object you are trying to delete has active assignments to materials, documents, or other objects in the SAP system.
  Dependencies: There may be dependencies or links to other objects that rely on the classification system, making it impossible to delete without first removing those dependencies.
  Data Integrity: SAP enforces data integrity rules to ensure that no critical data is lost or corrupted by allowing deletions of objects that are still in use.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify Dependencies:
  
  Use transaction codes like CL02 (Change Class) or CL03 (Display Class) to check if the classification system is assigned to any classes or objects.
  Check for any materials, documents, or other entities that are using the classification system.
  
  
  
  Remove Assignments:
  
  If you find that there are materials or other objects assigned to the classification system, you will need to remove those assignments first.
  This can typically be done through the relevant transaction codes (e.g., MM02 for materials) where you can remove the classification from the material master.
  
  
  
  Delete the Classification System:
  
  Once all dependencies and assignments have been removed, you can attempt to delete the classification system again using the appropriate transaction (e.g., CL01 for creating classes, where you can also delete).
  
  
  
  Check for Custom Code:
  
  If there are custom developments or enhancements in your SAP system, ensure that they are not holding references to the classification system.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP Basis or functional team for any specific guidelines related to your organization's use of classification systems.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CL01, CL02, CL03, MM01, MM02, and MM03 for managing classification and material master data.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or additional guidance related to classification systems and error handling.
  Authorization: Ensure you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to classification systems and related objects.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and successfully delete the classification system if it is no longer needed.