How To Fix UMB036 - Select a time variable for the characteristic '&1'

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UMB - SEM-CPM: Balanced Scorecard

• Message number: 036

• Message text: Select a time variable for the characteristic '&1'

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message UMB036 - Select a time variable for the characteristic '&1' ?

  The SAP error message UMB036, which states "Select a time variable for the characteristic '&1'", typically occurs in the context of SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP BI (Business Intelligence) when working with queries or reports that involve time characteristics.
  Cause:
  This error usually arises when:
  
  A time characteristic (like a key figure or dimension) is being used in a query or report, but no time variable has been defined or selected for it.
  The query is expecting a time variable to filter or aggregate data based on time, but it has not been specified in the query definition.
  The characteristic in question is not properly linked to a time dimension or variable in the data model.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the UMB036 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Query Definition:
  
  Open the query in the Query Designer.
  Ensure that the time characteristic is included in the query.
  Verify that a time variable is assigned to the time characteristic.
  
  
  
  Define Time Variable:
  
  If a time variable is not defined, you need to create one. This can be done in the Query Designer:
  
  Go to the "Variables" section.
  Create a new variable for the time characteristic.
  Specify the type of variable (e.g., selection variable, interval variable) and any default values or prompts.
  
  
  
  
  
  Assign Time Variable:
  
  Once the time variable is created, go back to the query and assign the variable to the time characteristic.
  Make sure to set the variable as mandatory if required.
  
  
  
  Test the Query:
  
  After making the changes, execute the query to ensure that the error is resolved and that the data is being retrieved correctly.
  
  
  
  Check Data Model:
  
  If the issue persists, check the underlying data model (InfoObjects, InfoCubes, or DataStore Objects) to ensure that the time characteristic is properly defined and linked to the relevant time dimension.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP Help Portal for detailed documentation on query design and variable management.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights and solutions from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as RSA1 (Data Warehousing Workbench) and RSRT (Query Monitor) for troubleshooting.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the UMB036 error and successfully run your queries involving time characteristics.