How To Fix UCFE118 - Characteristic for header area already exists in a structure

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UCFE - Messages for Data Entry Layouts

• Message number: 118

• Message text: Characteristic for header area already exists in a structure

What causes this issue?

The characteristic that is to be used in the header area already exists
elsewhere in the data entry layout. It is no longer possible to use this
characteristic in the header area.

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?

Assign a different reusable header area. Generate a header area directly
in the layout.

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 UCFE118 - Characteristic for header area already exists in a structure ?

  The SAP error message UCFE118, which states "Characteristic for header area already exists in a structure," typically occurs in the context of SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP BW/4HANA when you are trying to create or modify a data structure (like an InfoObject, InfoCube, or DSO) and you attempt to add a characteristic that is already defined in the header area of that structure.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by the following scenarios:
  
  Duplicate Characteristics: You are trying to add a characteristic to a structure that is already defined in the header area of that structure.
  Incorrect Structure Definition: The structure you are working with may have been incorrectly defined or modified, leading to conflicts in the characteristics.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the UCFE118 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Characteristics:
  
  Go to the data structure (InfoObject, InfoCube, DSO, etc.) in the SAP BW modeling tools.
  Review the header area of the structure to see which characteristics are already defined.
  
  
  
  Remove Duplicate Characteristics:
  
  If you find that the characteristic you are trying to add already exists, you should either remove the duplicate entry or modify your design to avoid adding the same characteristic again.
  
  
  
  Modify Structure:
  
  If necessary, modify the structure to ensure that each characteristic is unique and appropriately defined.
  
  
  
  Recheck Data Model:
  
  Ensure that your data model is correctly set up and that there are no conflicting definitions.
  
  
  
  Transport Requests:
  
  If you are working in a development environment, ensure that any changes are properly transported to the quality or production environment, as inconsistencies can sometimes arise from untransported changes.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on defining characteristics in your version of SAP BW.
  
  
  
  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 and resolved similar issues.
  Training and Documentation: Consider reviewing training materials or documentation related to SAP BW modeling to better understand how to structure your data models effectively.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the UCFE118 error and successfully manage your data structures in SAP BW.