How To Fix /SAPAPO/MA851 - Characteristic &1 can not be used, it is compounded

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/MA -

• Message number: 851

• Message text: Characteristic &1 can not be used, it is compounded

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/MA851 - Characteristic &1 can not be used, it is compounded ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/MA851 indicates that a characteristic in the SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) system cannot be used because it is compounded. This typically occurs when you are trying to use a characteristic that is part of a compound characteristic in a context where only simple characteristics are allowed.
  Cause:
  
  Compounded Characteristic: The characteristic you are trying to use is compounded with another characteristic. In SAP APO, compounded characteristics are used to group multiple characteristics together, and they cannot be used individually in certain contexts.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration of the characteristics in the APO system may not be set up correctly, leading to this error when trying to use them in planning or reporting.
  
  Solution:
  
  Identify the Compounded Characteristic: Check the characteristic that is causing the error. You can do this by looking at the characteristic's details in the SAP system.
  Use Simple Characteristics: Instead of using the compounded characteristic, use the individual simple characteristics that make up the compound. You can find these in the characteristic configuration.
  Modify the Planning Object: If you are working with a planning object or a planning book, ensure that you are using the correct characteristics that are not compounded.
  Change the Configuration: If necessary, you may need to change the configuration of the characteristics in the APO system. This could involve un-compounding the characteristic if it is not needed to be compounded for your specific use case.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for more detailed guidance on how to manage characteristics in APO.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Characteristics in SAP APO: Characteristics are attributes that describe the properties of products, resources, or other objects in the planning process. They can be simple or compounded.
  Compounding: Compounding allows you to create a hierarchy of characteristics, which can simplify the planning process but may limit how they can be used in certain contexts.
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like /SAPAPO/CTE (Characteristic Type Maintenance) or /SAPAPO/CPM (Characteristic Planning) to manage characteristics in the system.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis or APO consultant for further assistance.