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How To Fix W-078 - Select incorrect hierarchy nodes


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: W- -

  • Message number: 078

  • Message text: Select incorrect hierarchy nodes

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  • 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.



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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W-078 - Select incorrect hierarchy nodes ?

    SAP Error Message:
    W-078 Select incorrect hierarchy nodes


    Cause:

    This warning message typically occurs when a user selects hierarchy nodes in a way that is not allowed or inconsistent with the expected hierarchy structure in SAP. For example, in reports or planning functions where hierarchical data is involved (such as in Profit Center Accounting, Cost Center Accounting, or other controlling modules), selecting nodes that do not logically fit or are not valid for the operation can trigger this warning.

    Common causes include:

    • Selecting both parent and child nodes simultaneously when only one level is allowed.
    • Selecting nodes that belong to different hierarchies or incompatible branches.
    • Selecting nodes that are not active or valid in the current context.
    • Using an incorrect or outdated hierarchy version.

    Solution:

    To resolve the W-078 warning, consider the following steps:

    1. Check the hierarchy selection:

      • Ensure that you select only valid nodes according to the hierarchy rules.
      • Avoid selecting both parent and child nodes simultaneously if the system expects only one level.
      • Select nodes from the correct hierarchy version and ensure it is active.
    2. Use the hierarchy selection tool properly:

      • Use the standard SAP hierarchy selection dialogs or tree views to pick nodes rather than manual input.
      • Verify that the nodes you select are consistent and belong to the same hierarchy.
    3. Verify hierarchy setup:

      • Check the hierarchy definition in transaction codes like KSH1 (Create Hierarchy), KSH2 (Change Hierarchy), or KSH3 (Display Hierarchy) for controlling hierarchies.
      • Ensure the hierarchy is correctly maintained and active.
    4. Consult documentation or SAP notes:

      • Sometimes, specific modules or reports have particular restrictions on hierarchy node selection.
      • Check SAP Notes or module-specific documentation for any known issues or additional guidance.

    Related Information:

    • Hierarchy Maintenance Transactions:

      • KSH1 / KSH2 / KSH3 — Maintain controlling hierarchies.
      • RSO2 — Hierarchy maintenance in BW (if related to BW reporting).
    • Common Modules Involved:

      • Controlling (CO)
      • Profit Center Accounting (EC-PCA)
      • Cost Center Accounting (CCA)
      • SAP BW (Business Warehouse) reporting hierarchies
    • SAP Notes:

      • Search for SAP Notes related to message class W-078 or hierarchy node selection issues in your SAP system or on the SAP Support Portal.

    Summary:

    W-078 Select incorrect hierarchy nodes is a warning indicating that the selected hierarchy nodes are invalid or inconsistent for the operation. The solution is to carefully review and correct the hierarchy node selection, ensuring compliance with the hierarchy structure and rules defined in SAP.

    If the problem persists after verifying selections and hierarchy setup, consider consulting SAP support or your system administrator for further analysis.

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