How To Fix VCH_HL_GRP018 - The Configuration Characteristic Group &1 already exists as a draft

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VCH_HL_GRP -

• Message number: 018

• Message text: The Configuration Characteristic Group &1 already exists as a draft

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 VCH_HL_GRP018 - The Configuration Characteristic Group &1 already exists as a draft ?

  The SAP error message VCH_HL_GRP018 indicates that you are trying to create a configuration characteristic group that already exists in a draft state. This typically occurs in the context of SAP Variant Configuration, where characteristic groups are used to manage characteristics for configurable materials.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when:
  
  You attempt to create a new characteristic group with the same name or identifier as an existing one that is currently saved as a draft.
  The system prevents the creation of duplicate drafts to maintain data integrity and avoid confusion.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Drafts:
  
  Navigate to the relevant transaction (e.g., CU60 for characteristic groups) and check if there is an existing draft with the same name or identifier.
  If you find the draft, you can either complete it, delete it, or modify it as needed.
  
  
  
  Delete or Complete the Draft:
  
  If the draft is no longer needed, you can delete it. This can usually be done from the same transaction where you found the draft.
  If the draft is still relevant, consider completing it by saving the changes or activating it.
  
  
  
  Use a Different Name:
  
  If you need to create a new characteristic group and the existing draft is still required, consider using a different name or identifier for the new group.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources for more details on managing characteristic groups and drafts.
  
  
  
  Contact Support:
  
  If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CU60 (for characteristic groups) and CU01 (for characteristics).
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message for additional insights or patches that may address the issue.
  User Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to create or modify characteristic groups in your SAP environment.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and proceed with your configuration tasks.