How To Fix PRODALLOC_CHARC_CTLG038 - Authorization characteristic &1 is used in group &2 and cannot be removed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PRODALLOC_CHARC_CTLG - Prod Alloc Characteristic Catalog Message Class for BOPF

• Message number: 038

• Message text: Authorization characteristic &1 is used in group &2 and cannot be removed

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 PRODALLOC_CHARC_CTLG038 - Authorization characteristic &1 is used in group &2 and cannot be removed ?

  The SAP error message PRODALLOC_CHARC_CTLG038 indicates that there is an issue with authorization characteristics in a specific group. This error typically arises when you attempt to remove an authorization characteristic that is still being used in a particular authorization group.
  Cause:
  The error occurs because:
  
  The authorization characteristic (&1) is currently assigned to an authorization group (&2).
  SAP does not allow the removal of an authorization characteristic that is actively being used in an authorization group to maintain data integrity and security.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Usage: Verify where the authorization characteristic is being used. You can do this by checking the authorization group configuration and identifying the specific roles or profiles that reference the characteristic.
  
  
  Remove from Group: If you determine that the characteristic can be removed, you will need to:
  
  Navigate to the authorization group configuration.
  Remove the characteristic from the group where it is currently assigned.
  
  
  
  Adjust Roles/Profiles: If the characteristic is necessary for certain roles or profiles, consider adjusting those roles instead of removing the characteristic. This may involve:
  
  Modifying the roles to accommodate the removal of the characteristic.
  Creating a new role that does not require the characteristic.
  
  
  
  Testing: After making changes, ensure to test the roles and profiles to confirm that they function correctly without the removed characteristic.
  
  
  Documentation: Document any changes made for future reference and to maintain clarity in your authorization management.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Authorization Concepts: Familiarize yourself with SAP's authorization concepts, including roles, profiles, and authorization objects, to better understand how characteristics are used.
  Transaction Codes: You may use transaction codes like PFCG (Role Maintenance) to manage roles and authorization profiles.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific guidance or updates related to this error message, as there may be patches or recommendations from SAP.
  
  If you continue to face issues after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis or Security team for further assistance.