How To Fix QP391 - Dependent characteristic specifications will be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: QP - Message IDs for function module group QPAA

• Message number: 391

• Message text: Dependent characteristic specifications will be deleted

What causes this issue?

Dependent characteristic specifications already exist for the changed
characteristic. To avoid inconsistent data, these dependent
characteristic specifications will be deleted when you choose data
release.

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?

If you want to carry out the change, select data release.
If you want to keep the current dependent characteristic
specifications, cancel this action.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message QP391 - Dependent characteristic specifications will be deleted ?

  The SAP error message QP391, which states "Dependent characteristic specifications will be deleted," typically occurs in the context of Quality Management (QM) and is related to the handling of characteristic specifications in the context of inspection plans or quality notifications.
  Cause:
  This error message is triggered when you attempt to delete or modify a characteristic specification that has dependent characteristics associated with it. In SAP QM, characteristics can be dependent on one another, meaning that the value of one characteristic may influence or determine the values of others. When you try to delete a characteristic that has dependencies, SAP raises this warning to inform you that doing so will also remove the dependent characteristics.
  Solution:
  To resolve this issue, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review Dependencies: Check the characteristics that are dependent on the one you are trying to delete. You can do this by navigating to the characteristic specifications in the inspection plan or quality notification.
  
  
  Modify or Delete Dependent Characteristics: If you still want to proceed with the deletion, you will need to first delete or modify the dependent characteristics. Ensure that you understand the implications of removing these characteristics, as it may affect your quality processes.
  
  
  Use the Correct Transaction: Make sure you are using the appropriate transaction codes for managing characteristics and inspection plans, such as QP01 (Create Inspection Plan), QP02 (Change Inspection Plan), or QP03 (Display Inspection Plan).
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for more detailed information on managing characteristic specifications and understanding dependencies.
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support: If you are unsure about the implications of deleting certain characteristics or if the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Characteristic Specifications: In SAP QM, characteristics are used to define the attributes of a product that need to be inspected. They can be classified as either "master" or "dependent" characteristics.
  Inspection Plans: These are used to define how quality inspections are to be carried out, including the characteristics to be measured and the methods to be used.
  Quality Notifications: These are used to document quality issues and can also reference characteristic specifications.
  
  Understanding the relationships between characteristics and their specifications is crucial for effective quality management in SAP. Always ensure that you have a backup or a clear understanding of the impact of changes before making modifications to characteristic specifications.