How To Fix PLM_S4_XPRA021 - Reference characteristics are in use, conversion is not possible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PLM_S4_XPRA - Messages for PLM XPRA

• Message number: 021

• Message text: Reference characteristics are in use, conversion is not possible

What causes this issue?

You are using characteristics containing material numbers. Migration in
this case is currently not supported. Please refer to note 2333024 for
further details.

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?

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 PLM_S4_XPRA021 - Reference characteristics are in use, conversion is not possible ?

  The SAP error message PLM_S4_XPRA021 indicates that there are reference characteristics in use, which prevents the conversion process from being completed. This error typically arises during the migration or upgrade processes, particularly when moving from older versions of SAP to S/4HANA or when performing data conversions.
  Cause:
  The error occurs because reference characteristics are being utilized in the system, and the conversion process cannot proceed while these characteristics are active. Reference characteristics are used in classification systems to link characteristics to classes, and if they are in use, the system cannot safely convert or modify them without risking data integrity.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify Reference Characteristics:
  
  Use transaction codes like CT04 (Characteristic) or CL02 (Class) to identify which reference characteristics are in use.
  Check the classification data to see where these characteristics are being referenced.
  
  
  
  Deactivate or Remove Usage:
  
  If possible, deactivate the reference characteristics or remove their usage in the relevant classes or objects. This may involve:
  
  Changing the classification of materials or objects that use these characteristics.
  Deleting or modifying the characteristics in the classification system.
  
  
  
  
  
  Check Dependencies:
  
  Ensure that there are no dependencies or links that would prevent the removal or deactivation of the reference characteristics. This may require checking related objects or data.
  
  
  
  Run the Conversion Again:
  
  After addressing the reference characteristics, attempt to run the conversion process again. Monitor for any additional errors that may arise.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP Notes and documentation related to the specific version upgrade or migration you are performing. There may be specific guidelines or additional steps required for your scenario.
  
  
  
  Seek Support:
  
  If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support or consulting with an SAP expert who can provide guidance based on your specific system configuration and requirements.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional context or solutions for this specific error message.
  Upgrade Guides: Review the upgrade or migration guides provided by SAP for your specific version to ensure all prerequisites and steps are followed correctly.
  Testing: Always perform such changes in a test environment before applying them to production to avoid unintended consequences.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the PLM_S4_XPRA021 error and proceed with your conversion or upgrade process.