How To Fix UGMD316 - Invalid higher-level characteristic

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UGMD - FIN Master Data: Messages

• Message number: 316

• Message text: Invalid higher-level characteristic

What causes this issue?

You created a hierarchy that is not compounded to a valid value for the
higher-level characteristic.

System Response

Changes are not saved.

How to fix this error?

Correct the Customizing.

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 UGMD316 - Invalid higher-level characteristic ?

  The SAP error message UGMD316 "Invalid higher-level characteristic" typically occurs in the context of SAP's variant configuration or when dealing with characteristics in a material master or classification system. This error indicates that there is an issue with the relationship between characteristics, particularly when a higher-level characteristic is not valid or not properly defined.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Configuration: The higher-level characteristic may not be correctly defined in the configuration settings.
  Missing Characteristics: The characteristic that is supposed to be a higher-level characteristic may not exist or may not be assigned correctly.
  Hierarchy Issues: There may be issues with the hierarchy of characteristics, where the system cannot find the expected relationship between the higher-level and lower-level characteristics.
  Data Inconsistency: There may be inconsistencies in the data, such as missing values or incorrect assignments in the classification system.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Characteristic Definitions: Verify that the higher-level characteristic is defined correctly in the system. Go to the transaction code CT04 to check the characteristics.
  Review Configuration Settings: Ensure that the configuration settings for the material or product are correct. This can be done in the transaction code CU50 for variant configuration.
  Validate Hierarchies: Check the hierarchy of characteristics to ensure that the relationships are correctly established. You can use transaction CT04 to review the hierarchy.
  Data Consistency Check: Run a consistency check on the material master or classification data to identify any inconsistencies. This can be done using transaction CL02 for class maintenance.
  Reassign Characteristics: If necessary, reassign the higher-level characteristic to the appropriate class or material.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or notes related to variant configuration and characteristics for any specific guidelines or updates.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  CT04: Characteristic Maintenance
  CU50: Configuration Profile
  CL02: Class Maintenance
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues related to this error message.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a consultant who specializes in SAP variant configuration and classification systems.