How To Fix R7B678 - Transitive attribute &1 cannot be enabled as a time-dependent attribute

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: R7B - BW Metadata (InfoCube, InfoObject, InfoObject catalog)

• Message number: 678

• Message text: Transitive attribute &1 cannot be enabled as a time-dependent attribute

What causes this issue?

A transitive attribute can only be enabled as a time-dependent attribute
if the basis attribute contained in the same characteristic<(>,<)> and
the attribute of the basis attribute used as a basis for the transitive
attribute<(>,<)> are enabled as time-dependent attributes.

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 R7B678 - Transitive attribute &1 cannot be enabled as a time-dependent attribute ?

  The SAP error message R7B678 indicates that there is an issue with enabling a transitive attribute as a time-dependent attribute in the context of SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP HANA modeling. This error typically arises when you are trying to set a transitive attribute to be time-dependent, but the system does not allow it due to certain constraints.
  Cause:
  
  Transitive Attributes: Transitive attributes are those that are derived from other attributes through a chain of relationships. In SAP BW, these attributes are often used to represent hierarchies or relationships between master data.
  Time Dependency: Time-dependent attributes are those that can change over time, meaning their values can vary based on a specific time period.
  Incompatibility: The error occurs because transitive attributes cannot be made time-dependent. This is due to the nature of how transitive attributes are derived and the complexity involved in tracking changes over time.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Attribute Settings: Check the settings of the attribute you are trying to enable as time-dependent. Ensure that it is not a transitive attribute or that it does not have dependencies that prevent it from being time-dependent.
  Change Attribute Type: If you need the attribute to be time-dependent, consider creating a new attribute that is not transitive and can be set as time-dependent.
  Modeling Adjustments: If the transitive attribute is essential, you may need to adjust your data model to accommodate the requirements without making it time-dependent.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on handling attributes in your version of SAP BW or HANA.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional context.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  Data Modeling Best Practices: Familiarize yourself with best practices for data modeling in SAP BW or HANA, especially regarding the use of attributes and their dependencies.
  
  By understanding the nature of transitive attributes and the constraints around time-dependent attributes, you can better navigate this error and implement a suitable solution.