How To Fix WS_TOOL871 - Type &1: Type category has changed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WS_TOOL - Message Class for Web Services and Virtual Endpoints

• Message number: 871

• Message text: Type &1: Type category has changed

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WS_TOOL871 - Type &1: Type category has changed ?

  The SAP error message:
  WS_TOOL871 Type &1: Type category has changed
  
  Meaning / Cause:
  This error occurs when you try to change the type category of an existing data type in the ABAP Dictionary (SE11). The type category defines the fundamental nature of the data type, such as whether it is a structure, table type, element, data element, etc.
  Changing the type category of an existing type is not allowed because it would fundamentally alter the data type's definition and could lead to inconsistencies or data corruption in programs or database tables that use this type.
  For example, if you have a data type defined as a structure and you try to change it to a table type, the system will raise this error.
  
  When does it occur?
  
  When modifying an existing data type in SE11.
  When trying to transport or import a data type where the type category differs from the existing one in the target system.
  When adjusting or enhancing data types in custom developments or standard SAP objects.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  Do not change the type category of an existing data type. Instead, create a new data type with the desired type category.
  If you need a different type category, create a new type with a new name and the correct category.
  Adjust all references in your programs or dictionary objects to use the new type.
  If this error occurs during transport, check the source and target system for inconsistencies in the data type definitions and align them accordingly.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Type categories in ABAP Dictionary include:
  
  0 Data element
  1 Structure
  2 Table type
  3 Data type
  4 Reference type
  etc.
  
  
  
  Changing the type category is a non-reversible operation and is restricted to maintain data integrity.
  
  
  For more details, see SAP Note or documentation on ABAP Dictionary data types and type categories.
  
  
  If you want to check the type category of a data type, you can use transaction SE11 and look at the type properties.
  
  
  
  Summary:
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Description
  
  
  
  
  Error
  WS_TOOL871 Type &1: Type category has changed
  
  
  Cause
  Attempt to change the type category of a data type in SE11
  
  
  Solution
  Create a new data type with the desired category instead of changing the existing one
  
  
  Related info
  Type categories define the fundamental nature of data types; changing them is not allowed
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the exact context or steps leading to this error, I can help with more tailored advice.