How To Fix UPC418 - Hierarchies with link nodes cannot be used

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UPC - Planning: General Error Messages

• Message number: 418

• Message text: Hierarchies with link nodes cannot be used

What causes this issue?

Node &V1& is a link node. Only hierarchies can be used in BPS which do
not contain any link nodes.

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?

Change hierarchy &V2& so that it does not have any link nodes.

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 UPC418 - Hierarchies with link nodes cannot be used ?

  The SAP error message UPC418, which states "Hierarchies with link nodes cannot be used," typically occurs in the context of SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP Analytics Cloud when dealing with hierarchies in your data models. This error indicates that the hierarchy you are trying to use contains link nodes, which are not supported in certain contexts.
  Cause:
  
  Link Nodes in Hierarchies: The primary cause of this error is the presence of link nodes in the hierarchy. Link nodes are used to create references to other nodes or hierarchies, but they are not supported in all scenarios, particularly when the system expects a flat structure or a specific type of hierarchy.
  Hierarchy Configuration: The hierarchy may not be configured correctly, or it may be using a structure that is incompatible with the operation you are trying to perform.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Hierarchy Structure: Check the hierarchy definition in the SAP system. Ensure that it does not contain any link nodes. You may need to modify the hierarchy to remove or replace link nodes with standard nodes.
  Use Alternative Hierarchies: If the hierarchy you are trying to use is essential, consider creating a new hierarchy that does not include link nodes. This may involve restructuring your data model.
  Check Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on hierarchy configurations and limitations regarding link nodes.
  Consult with SAP Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance. They can provide insights based on your specific system configuration and version.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP BW Hierarchies: Understanding how hierarchies work in SAP BW is crucial. Hierarchies can be used for organizing data in a way that reflects business structures, but they must adhere to certain rules.
  Link Nodes: Link nodes are typically used to create complex relationships between different nodes in a hierarchy. However, their use is limited in certain contexts, such as when performing aggregations or calculations.
  Best Practices: When designing hierarchies, it is advisable to follow best practices to ensure compatibility with various SAP tools and functionalities. This includes avoiding link nodes unless absolutely necessary.
  
  By addressing the presence of link nodes and ensuring that your hierarchy is compatible with the operations you intend to perform, you should be able to resolve the UPC418 error.