How To Fix VSCE396 - Reference characteristic &1 (&3) not supported in the SCE

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VSCE - Messages for SCE

• Message number: 396

• Message text: Reference characteristic &1 (&3) not supported in the SCE

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 VSCE396 - Reference characteristic &1 (&3) not supported in the SCE ?

  The SAP error message VSCE396 indicates that a reference characteristic is not supported in the Supply Chain Execution (SCE) environment. This typically occurs in the context of SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) or SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) when dealing with characteristics and their relationships in the context of planning and execution.
  Cause:
  
  Unsupported Characteristics: The reference characteristic specified in the error message is not defined or not supported in the context of the SCE. This could be due to the characteristic not being activated or configured properly in the system.
  Data Model Issues: There may be inconsistencies or misconfigurations in the data model that prevent the reference characteristic from being recognized.
  Version Compatibility: The version of the software or the specific configuration may not support the reference characteristic being used.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Characteristic Configuration: Verify that the reference characteristic is correctly defined and activated in the system. Ensure that it is included in the relevant planning area or data model.
  Review Data Model: Examine the data model to ensure that all necessary characteristics are included and properly configured. This may involve checking the planning area settings and ensuring that the reference characteristic is part of the relevant key figures.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or release notes for any specific limitations or requirements regarding the use of reference characteristics in the SCE.
  Update System: If the issue is related to version compatibility, consider updating to a newer version of the software that supports the required characteristics.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists after checking the above points, it may be necessary to contact SAP support for further assistance. Provide them with the error message details and any relevant configuration information.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  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 Documentation: Review training materials or documentation related to SAP SCE and characteristic management to ensure best practices are being followed.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.