How To Fix ST313 - Terminology concept is still being referenced

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ST - Terminology Database

• Message number: 313

• Message text: Terminology concept is still being referenced

What causes this issue?

You tried to delete a terminology concept that is still referenced.
Terminology concepts can be referenced as glossary links in ABAP
documentation as well as glossary links and index entries in the SAP
Library.

System Response

You cannot delete the terminology concept.

How to fix this error?

Use the where-used list in transaction STERM to find all the places
where the terminology concept is referenced, and delete those
references.

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 ST313 - Terminology concept is still being referenced ?

  The SAP error message ST313, which states "Terminology concept is still being referenced," typically occurs in the context of the SAP system's terminology management. This error indicates that you are trying to delete or modify a terminology concept that is still being used or referenced in the system.
  Cause:
  
  Active References: The terminology concept you are attempting to delete or modify is still being referenced in one or more places within the SAP system. This could include being linked to terms, translations, or other terminology-related objects.
  Inconsistent Data: There may be inconsistencies in the data where the terminology concept is not properly unlinked from its references before attempting to delete it.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the ST313 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify References:
  
  Use the SAP transaction code ST03N or ST04 to analyze where the terminology concept is being referenced.
  Check the terminology management tools in SAP (like transaction SCT or SCTT) to find out which objects are still linked to the terminology concept.
  
  
  
  Remove References:
  
  Once you identify the references, you need to remove or update them. This may involve:
  
  Deleting or modifying the terms that reference the terminology concept.
  Updating any translations or related objects that are still linked to the concept.
  
  
  
  
  
  Retry Deletion/Modification:
  
  After ensuring that all references have been removed, attempt to delete or modify the terminology concept again.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the references or how to proceed, consult the SAP documentation or help resources related to terminology management.
  
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists and you cannot identify the references, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Terminology Management: SAP provides tools for managing terminology, which is crucial for maintaining consistency in language and translations across the system.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SCT (for terminology management) and SCTT (for terminology translation) to navigate the terminology management features effectively.
  System Logs: Check system logs for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the ST313 error and manage your terminology concepts effectively within the SAP system.