Symptom
When deleting a model, SAC displays: "The selected files are used by other files and cannot be deleted." The dependency list shows references (e.g., ACTIVITY_LOG, RESOURCE), but the related Stories cannot be found in any folder.
Environment
SAP Analytics Cloud 2026.11 and higher.
Reproducing the Issue
- Log on to SAP Analytics Cloud.
- Navigate to the Files or Models area.
- Select a model that is no longer required.
- Choose Delete.
- The system displays a dependency warning stating that the selected model is used by other files.
- The referenced files cannot be located.
Cause
The referencing files are Classic Stories. Due to the Classic Experience deprecation, Classic assets are hidden from the UI, but their dependencies remain active so SAC blocks deletion of the referenced models.
Resolution
An administrator can temporarily re-expose the hidden Classic assets:
- Go to System → Administration.
- Open the System Configuration tab.
- Click Edit.
- Enable Access content created in the Classic Experience.
- Save the configuration.
- Identify and migrate or delete the Classic Stories referencing the models.
- Delete the models once all dependencies are removed.
- Disable the option after cleanup is complete.
Important This option is intended only for migration and cleanup. The Classic Experience is deprecated and must not be used for regular productive work. The toggle may be removed by SAP during the 2026 Q4 timeframe. Reference SAP KBA 3707921— Classic Experience deprecation in SAP Analytics Cloud
Keywords
deprecation, SAP Analytics Cloud Classic Experience,ACTIVITY_LOG, RESOURCE , KBA , LOD-ANA-XUS , Telemetry, System Overview and Performance Tools in SAC , LOD-ANA-DES , Story Design & Visualizations , LOD-ANA-ADM , SAC Administration , Problem
SAP Knowledge Base Article - Public