How To Fix W-059 - Select hierarchy header nodes for higher-level assignment

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: W- -

• Message number: 059

• Message text: Select hierarchy header nodes for higher-level assignment

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W-059 - Select hierarchy header nodes for higher-level assignment ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  W-059 Select hierarchy header nodes for higher-level assignment
  
  Cause:
  This warning message typically occurs when you are trying to assign or process nodes in a hierarchy, but the system expects you to select the header nodes (higher-level nodes) rather than the lower-level or leaf nodes. In SAP, certain operations on hierarchies require you to work with the header or parent nodes to maintain consistency and proper aggregation.
  For example, when assigning characteristics or performing planning activities in modules like SAP BW, SAP PS, or SAP HR, the system may require you to select the hierarchy header nodes to ensure that the assignment applies correctly to the entire subtree or group.
  
  Explanation:
  
  Hierarchy header nodes are the top-level or intermediate nodes in a hierarchy that group together lower-level nodes.
  Leaf nodes are the lowest-level nodes without any children.
  Some SAP functions or transactions require you to select header nodes because:
  
  Assignments or changes at the header level automatically propagate to all child nodes.
  It ensures data consistency and avoids partial or incorrect assignments.
  
  
  
  
  Solution:
  
  When you encounter this message, do not select leaf nodes or lower-level nodes individually.
  Instead, select the appropriate header node(s) in the hierarchy that represent the higher-level grouping.
  If you are unsure which nodes are header nodes, you can:
  
  Use the hierarchy display or tree structure to identify nodes with children.
  Consult the hierarchy definition or master data to understand the structure.
  
  
  After selecting the header nodes, proceed with your assignment or processing.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  This message is common in modules dealing with hierarchical data structures such as:
  
  SAP BW (Business Warehouse) hierarchies
  SAP PS (Project System) WBS element hierarchies
  SAP HR (Organizational Management) structures
  
  
  The message is a warning (W), so it may not stop processing but indicates that the selection might not be optimal or correct.
  Always ensure that your selection aligns with the business logic and data model requirements.
  If you repeatedly face this message and are unsure about the hierarchy structure, consider:
  
  Reviewing the hierarchy maintenance transaction (e.g., RSH1 in BW)
  Consulting with a functional consultant or hierarchy owner
  Checking SAP Notes or documentation specific to your module
  
  
  
  
  Summary:
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Details
  
  
  
  
  Cause
  Selecting lower-level (leaf) nodes instead of hierarchy header nodes for assignment.
  
  
  Solution
  Select the appropriate hierarchy header nodes (parent nodes) for the assignment.
  
  
  Related
  Occurs in hierarchy-related processes in SAP BW, PS, HR; warning message indicating best practice.
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the exact transaction or module where you see this message, I can give more tailored advice.