How To Fix /SAPAPO/TSM338 - Characteristics of planning areas '&1' and '&2' are not compatible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/TSM -

• Message number: 338

• Message text: Characteristics of planning areas '&1' and '&2' are not compatible

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/TSM338 - Characteristics of planning areas '&1' and '&2' are not compatible ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/TSM338 indicates that there is an incompatibility between the characteristics of two planning areas in SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO). This typically occurs when you are trying to perform operations that involve multiple planning areas, such as transferring data or merging planning areas, and the characteristics (attributes) defined in these planning areas do not match.
  Cause:
  
  Different Characteristics: The planning areas may have different sets of characteristics defined. For example, one planning area may have a characteristic that the other does not.
  Incompatible Data Types: Even if the same characteristics exist in both planning areas, they may have different data types or attributes (e.g., one may be a key figure while the other is a characteristic).
  Hierarchy Differences: If the characteristics are part of hierarchies, differences in the hierarchy structure can also lead to this error.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration issues in the planning area settings that lead to incompatibility.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Characteristics: Review the characteristics defined in both planning areas. Ensure that they have the same characteristics and that they are defined in the same way (data types, attributes, etc.).
  Align Planning Areas: If possible, align the characteristics of the planning areas. This may involve adding missing characteristics or modifying existing ones to ensure compatibility.
  Review Hierarchies: If hierarchies are involved, ensure that they are consistent across both planning areas.
  Data Transfer: If you are trying to transfer data between planning areas, ensure that the data being transferred is compatible with the target planning area.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on the characteristics and configuration of planning areas.
  Testing: After making changes, perform tests to ensure that the error does not occur again.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like /SAPAPO/TSM to manage planning areas and their characteristics.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address known issues or provide additional guidance on this error.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the incompatibility and implement a solution to resolve the error.