How To Fix OA688 - Attribute & has an incorrect data type.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: OA - SAP ArchiveLink: Messages for SAP ArchiveLink

• Message number: 688

• Message text: Attribute & has an incorrect data type.

What causes this issue?

Attributes of a different data type have already been assigned to the
attribute of the document area. However, an attribute of an aggregated
document area can only aggregate attributes of the same type.

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

System Response

How to fix this error?

Select attributes of the same data type only.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message OA688 - Attribute & has an incorrect data type. ?

  The SAP error message OA688, which states "Attribute & has an incorrect data type," typically occurs in the context of SAP's data modeling or configuration, particularly when dealing with attributes in InfoObjects, DataSources, or other data structures. This error indicates that there is a mismatch between the expected data type of an attribute and the actual data type defined in the system.
  Cause:
  
  Data Type Mismatch: The attribute in question has been defined with a data type that does not match the expected data type in the context where it is being used. For example, if an attribute is defined as a character type but is being treated as a numeric type, this error may occur.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration of InfoObjects, DataSources, or other data structures may have been altered incorrectly, leading to inconsistencies in data types.
  Data Transfer Issues: If data is being transferred from one system to another (e.g., during ETL processes), and the data types are not compatible, this error can arise.
  Changes in Data Model: If there have been recent changes to the data model or attributes, and the changes have not been properly propagated or updated in all relevant areas, this error may occur.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Attribute Definition: Review the definition of the attribute in the relevant InfoObject or DataSource. Ensure that the data type is correctly defined and matches the expected type in the context where it is being used.
  Update Data Types: If a mismatch is found, update the data type of the attribute to match the expected type. This may involve changing the data type in the InfoObject or DataSource definition.
  Consistency Check: Perform a consistency check on the InfoObjects or DataSources to identify any other potential issues related to data types.
  Re-activate Objects: After making changes, re-activate the InfoObjects or DataSources to ensure that the changes take effect.
  Data Transfer Configuration: If the error occurs during data transfer, review the configuration of the data transfer process to ensure that data types are correctly mapped and compatible.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to the specific version of SAP you are using for any known issues or additional guidance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific notes related to error OA688, as there may be patches or updates that address this issue.
  Data Dictionary: Familiarize yourself with the SAP Data Dictionary (SE11) to understand how data types are defined and managed within the system.
  Debugging: If necessary, use debugging tools to trace the execution and identify where the data type mismatch is occurring.
  Community Forums: Consider reaching out to SAP community forums or support for additional insights or similar experiences from other users.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the OA688 error in your SAP environment.