How To Fix WER461 - Method return parameter must be a valid DDIC type

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WER - Messages for the package WER

• Message number: 461

• Message text: Method return parameter must be a valid DDIC type

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WER461 - Method return parameter must be a valid DDIC type ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WER461 - Method return parameter must be a valid DDIC type
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs when you define a method in an ABAP class (especially in ABAP Objects) and specify a return parameter whose data type is not a valid Data Dictionary (DDIC) type. In other words, the return parameter's type must be a type that is defined in the ABAP Data Dictionary (such as a DDIC structure, table type, domain, data element, or a built-in ABAP type that corresponds to a DDIC type). If you use a local type (defined in the class or program) or a type that is not recognized as a DDIC type, the system raises this error.
  
  Explanation:
  
  In ABAP Objects, method parameters (especially return parameters) often require a DDIC type to ensure consistency and integration with other SAP components.
  This is particularly important when the method is part of an interface or a global class.
  The system enforces this to maintain type safety and compatibility.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Use a DDIC type for the return parameter:
  
  Change the return parameter's type to a type defined in the ABAP Data Dictionary.
  For example, use a data element, domain, or a DDIC structure/table type.
  
  
  
  If you need to use a local type:
  
  Consider changing the method to use an importing or exporting parameter instead of a return parameter.
  Or define the type globally in the Data Dictionary and then use it in the method signature.
  
  
  
  Check the method signature:
  
  Go to the method definition in SE24 (Class Builder).
  Verify the return parameter's type.
  Replace any local or non-DDIC types with appropriate DDIC types.
  
  
  
  
  Example:
  Incorrect:
  CLASS lcl_example DEFINITION.
    PUBLIC SECTION.
      TYPES: ty_data TYPE string.
      METHODS get_data RETURNING VALUE(rv_data) TYPE ty_data.
  ENDCLASS.
  Here, ty_data is a local type (string is a built-in type but not a DDIC type), so this will cause WER461.
  Correct:
  CLASS lcl_example DEFINITION.
    PUBLIC SECTION.
      METHODS get_data RETURNING VALUE(rv_data) TYPE c LENGTH 100.
  ENDCLASS.
  Or better, use a DDIC type:
  CLASS lcl_example DEFINITION.
    PUBLIC SECTION.
      METHODS get_data RETURNING VALUE(rv_data) TYPE zmy_ddic_type.
  ENDCLASS.
  Where zmy_ddic_type is a type defined in the ABAP Data Dictionary.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Note: Sometimes SAP Notes related to ABAP Objects and method parameter typing may provide additional guidance.
  ABAP Documentation: Check the ABAP keyword documentation for METHODS and RETURNING parameters.
  SE24 (Class Builder): Use this transaction to inspect and modify method signatures.
  DDIC Types: Use SE11 to create or check data elements, domains, structures, and table types.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  Cause: Return parameter type is not a valid DDIC type.
  Solution: Use a DDIC type for the return parameter.
  Check: Method signature in SE24 and replace local or non-DDIC types with DDIC types.
  
  
  If you provide the method signature or code snippet, I can help you correct it specifically.