BRAIN_DEV152 - The cache will be used despite virtual characteristics / key figures

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BRAIN_DEV - BRAIN messages (for use by development)

• Message number: 152

• Message text: The cache will be used despite virtual characteristics / key figures

What causes this issue?

The query uses virtual characteristics or virtual key figures filled in
a BADI implementation. The result of this BADI implementation is stored
in the analytic engine query cache and might be reused in navigation
contexts with less characteristics in drill. This only leads to reliable
and reproducible query results if the operations performed in the BADI
implementation are interchangeable with aggregation. SAP Note 1717880
describes the problem and the possible solutions.
A simple example for a problematical BADI implementation
The BADI changes the value of a key figure with standard aggregation SUM
to 0 if it is negative. Assume the following data inside the
infoprovider:
Country,,Quantity
Germany,,-50 PC
France,,+20 PC
Netherlands,,+60 PC
If the data is read with the Country, all rows are processed by the
BADI, the quantity for Germany is changed to 0 PC, and the total
quantity is +80 PC. If the data is read pre-aggregated, only one row is
processed by the BADI, and the total quantity is +30 PC. Depending on
the granularity the result is different. Depending on the current
content of the query cache the result for the total can be different.
This is unexpected of course.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

The following solutions are possible, depending on the type of
operations performed in the BADI implementation:
You can specify a level of detail in the user exit that is the minimum
level for the reading of the data.
You can use formulas with exception aggregation instead of virtual key
figures.
You can switch off the usage of the OLAP cache.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BRAIN_DEV152 - The cache will be used despite virtual characteristics / key figures ?

  The SAP error message BRAIN_DEV152 indicates that there is an issue with the use of virtual characteristics or key figures in the context of the SAP BW (Business Warehouse) system. This message typically arises when the system is trying to use cached data, but there are virtual characteristics or key figures involved in the query that may not be compatible with the cached data.
  Cause:
  
  
  Virtual Characteristics/Key Figures: The presence of virtual characteristics or key figures in a query can lead to inconsistencies when the system attempts to use cached data. Virtual characteristics are not physically stored in the database but are derived at runtime, which can conflict with the pre-calculated data in the cache.
  
  
  Cache Invalidation: If the cache is not invalidated properly when changes occur in the underlying data or structure, the system may still attempt to use the cached data, leading to this warning.
  
  
  Query Design: The design of the query may not be optimal for using cached data, especially if it relies heavily on virtual elements.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Review Query Design: Check the design of the query to see if the use of virtual characteristics or key figures is necessary. If possible, consider redesigning the query to avoid using them, or limit their use.
  
  
  Clear Cache: Manually clear the cache for the specific query or InfoProvider. This can be done through transaction codes like RSRT (for query execution) or RSOS (for cache management).
  
  
  Update InfoProvider: Ensure that the InfoProvider is updated and that any changes to the underlying data model are reflected in the cache.
  
  
  Use Aggregates: If applicable, consider using aggregates instead of virtual characteristics/key figures to improve performance and compatibility with caching.
  
  
  Check for Notes and Patches: Look for SAP Notes or patches that may address this specific issue. Sometimes, SAP releases updates that improve the handling of virtual characteristics and caching.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP BW Documentation: Review the official SAP BW documentation for best practices on query design and caching mechanisms.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  Performance Monitoring: Use transaction codes like RSRT to monitor query performance and cache usage, which can help identify potential issues with virtual characteristics.
  
  By addressing the design of the query and managing the cache effectively, you can mitigate the occurrence of the BRAIN_DEV152 error message.