How To Fix SBO_MSG021 - Cannot delete SAP Object Node Type &, as it is already in use

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SBO_MSG - Message Class for Class CL_SBO_BODATAMANAGE

• Message number: 021

• Message text: Cannot delete SAP Object Node Type &, as it is already in use

What causes this issue?

SAP Object Node Type already in use

System Response

Cannot delete SAP Object Node Type

How to fix this error?

Check if the SAP Object Node Type details are present in <LS>Maintain
SAP Object Node Type Representation</>. If they are present, then delete
the entries from these Customizing activities first.

Procedure for System Administrators

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SBO_MSG021 - Cannot delete SAP Object Node Type &, as it is already in use ?

  The SAP error message SBO_MSG021, which states "Cannot delete SAP Object Node Type &, as it is already in use," typically occurs when you attempt to delete an object or node type that is currently being referenced or utilized in the system. This can happen in various contexts, such as when dealing with business objects, configuration settings, or other entities within the SAP environment.
  Cause:
  
  Active References: The object you are trying to delete has active references in other parts of the system. This could be due to dependencies in configuration, transactions, or other objects that rely on it.
  Data Integrity Constraints: SAP enforces data integrity, and if an object is linked to other data, it cannot be deleted to prevent orphaned records or broken links.
  User Authorizations: Sometimes, the user may not have the necessary authorizations to delete the object, leading to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Identify Dependencies: 
  
  Use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE80 (Object Navigator) to check for dependencies on the object you are trying to delete. Look for any references in tables, programs, or other objects.
  You can also use the "Where-Used List" feature to find where the object is being used.
  
  
  
  Remove References: 
  
  If you find that the object is being referenced elsewhere, you will need to remove those references before attempting to delete the object again.
  This may involve deleting or modifying related entries in other tables or configurations.
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations: 
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to delete the object. If not, contact your SAP administrator to obtain the required permissions.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: 
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources related to the specific object type you are trying to delete. There may be specific guidelines or procedures for handling deletions.
  
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes: 
  
  If applicable, use specific transaction codes related to the object type for deletion. For example, if it’s a configuration object, use the appropriate configuration transaction.
  
  
  
  Testing in Development: 
  
  If you are working in a development environment, consider testing the deletion process in a sandbox or development system before applying changes to production.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or additional guidance related to this error message. You can search for SBO_MSG021 in the SAP Support Portal.
  System Logs: Review system logs (transaction SLG1) for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and take appropriate action to resolve it.