How To Fix UGMD055 - &1 is used in a hierarchy and cannot be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UGMD - FIN Master Data: Messages

• Message number: 055

• Message text: &1 is used in a hierarchy and cannot be deleted

What causes this issue?

*** similar to UGMD052, 053, and 054 ***
&V1& is used in hierarchy &V2&. This is why you cannot delete &V1&.
Deletion is only possible when the characteristic value is no longer
used.

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?

If you want to delete &V1&, you first have to change the hierarchy so
that &V1& is no longer in use.
There may still be other uses of &V1&. The system could show another use
when you again try to delete after changing the hierarchy. You have to
delete all uses that are displayed. Only then can you delete &V1&.

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 UGMD055 - &1 is used in a hierarchy and cannot be deleted ?

  The SAP error message UGMD055 indicates that a specific object (usually a master data object like a cost center, profit center, or similar) is being used in a hierarchy and therefore cannot be deleted. This is a common issue when trying to remove or delete master data that is still referenced in other structures or hierarchies within the SAP system.
  Cause:
  
  Hierarchy Usage: The object you are trying to delete is part of a hierarchy. Hierarchies are used in various SAP modules (like CO, FI, etc.) to organize data in a structured manner.
  Dependencies: The object may have dependencies or relationships with other objects that prevent its deletion.
  Data Integrity: SAP enforces data integrity rules to ensure that deleting an object does not lead to inconsistencies in the data.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the UGMD055 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify the Hierarchy: Determine which hierarchy the object is part of. You can do this by checking the relevant hierarchy structure in the SAP transaction related to the object type (e.g., KSH1 for cost centers).
  
  
  Remove from Hierarchy: If you have the necessary authorizations, you can remove the object from the hierarchy. This is typically done in the hierarchy maintenance transaction (e.g., KSH2 for cost centers). 
  
  
  Check Dependencies: Ensure that there are no other dependencies or references to the object in other areas of the system. This may include checking for assignments in reports, planning, or other master data.
  
  
  Delete the Object: Once the object is no longer part of any hierarchy or has no dependencies, you can attempt to delete it again.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the implications of deleting the object, consult your organization's data governance policies or SAP documentation.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes for managing hierarchies and master data (e.g., KSH1, KSH2, KSH3 for cost centers).
  Authorization: Ensure you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to hierarchies and master data.
  Backup: Always consider backing up data or documenting the current state before making deletions, as this can help in case of unintended consequences.
  
  If you continue to face issues, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in the relevant module.