How To Fix VBDRV016 - Flag the attribute as either a field or a characteristic

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VBDRV - Derivation of Batch Characteristics

• Message number: 016

• Message text: Flag the attribute as either a field or a characteristic

What causes this issue?

For the attribute to be derived, you have set the indicator for both
<DS:DE.DRVXFIELD>field</> and <DS:DE.DRVXCHAR>charateristic</>, or you
have left both indicators blank.

System Response

If you later choose the F4 help, the system cannot decide whether to
display help for master data fields or for classifying characteristics.

How to fix this error?

Select only one of the indicators.

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 VBDRV016 - Flag the attribute as either a field or a characteristic ?

  The SAP error message VBDRV016 indicates that there is an issue with the configuration of an attribute in the context of SAP's variant configuration (VC). Specifically, this error occurs when an attribute is not properly defined as either a field or a characteristic in the system.
  Cause:
  The error typically arises due to one of the following reasons:
  
  Incorrect Attribute Definition: The attribute in question has not been correctly classified as a field or a characteristic in the variant configuration settings.
  Missing Configuration: The attribute may not have been assigned to the appropriate class or may not be linked correctly to the product model.
  Data Inconsistency: There may be inconsistencies in the data or configuration settings that lead to the system being unable to determine how to treat the attribute.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the VBDRV016 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Attribute Settings:
  
  Go to the transaction code CT04 (Class Type Maintenance) or CL02 (Change Class).
  Locate the attribute that is causing the error.
  Ensure that the attribute is correctly defined as either a field or a characteristic. If it is not, you will need to adjust its settings accordingly.
  
  
  
  Assign Attribute to Class:
  
  Ensure that the attribute is assigned to the correct class in the variant configuration.
  If the attribute is supposed to be a characteristic, make sure it is included in the class that is being used for the configuration.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration Profiles:
  
  Check the configuration profiles associated with the product model to ensure that the attribute is included and correctly defined.
  
  
  
  Test Configuration:
  
  After making the necessary changes, test the configuration to ensure that the error no longer appears.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the correct settings, refer to SAP documentation or consult with a colleague who has experience with variant configuration.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CT04 (to maintain characteristics), CL02 (to change classes), and CU01 (to create configuration profiles).
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message for additional guidance or patches that may address known issues.
  Training and Resources: Consider SAP training resources or community forums for further assistance and best practices in managing variant configuration.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the VBDRV016 error and ensure that your attributes are correctly configured in SAP.