How To Fix UPF203 - Formula error; &1 characteristic can only be used once

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UPF - Planning Functions

• Message number: 203

• Message text: Formula error; &1 characteristic can only be used once

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message UPF203 - Formula error; &1 characteristic can only be used once ?

  The SAP error message UPF203 indicates that there is a formula error related to the use of characteristics in a planning function or a planning model. Specifically, it states that a certain characteristic (denoted by &1) can only be used once in the context of the formula you are trying to execute. This typically occurs in the context of SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) or SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO).
  Cause:
  The error is caused by the following scenarios:
  
  Duplicate Use of Characteristics: The characteristic mentioned in the error message is being referenced multiple times in the same formula or planning function. In SAP, each characteristic should only be used once in a formula to avoid ambiguity in calculations.
  Incorrect Formula Definition: The formula may have been defined incorrectly, leading to the inclusion of the same characteristic multiple times.
  Model Configuration Issues: There may be issues with how the planning model or function is configured, leading to unintended duplications.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the UPF203 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review the Formula: Check the formula where the error is occurring. Ensure that the characteristic mentioned in the error message is only used once. If it appears multiple times, you will need to modify the formula to eliminate the duplicates.
  
  
  Modify the Planning Function: If the error is occurring in a planning function, review the function's configuration. Ensure that each characteristic is only included once in the input or output parameters.
  
  
  Check Characteristic Usage: If you are using characteristics in a planning model, verify that they are not being referenced in conflicting ways. Each characteristic should have a clear and unique role in the calculations.
  
  
  Test Changes: After making the necessary adjustments, test the planning function or formula again to ensure that the error has been resolved.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about how to structure your formula or planning function, refer to the SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on best practices.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional insights or fixes related to this error.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  Training and Resources: Consider training or resources on SAP IBP or APO to better understand how to work with formulas and planning functions effectively.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the UPF203 error in your SAP environment.