How To Fix 40594 - Check either duration or start/finish date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 40 - Messages for Process Orders

• Message number: 594

• Message text: Check either duration or start/finish date

What causes this issue?

You have tried to check the duration and the start/finish date.

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?

Check either the duration or the start/finish date.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 40594 - Check either duration or start/finish date ?

  The SAP error message 40594, which states "Check either duration or start/finish date," typically occurs in the context of project management or scheduling within SAP, particularly in modules like Project System (PS) or Production Planning (PP). This error indicates that there is an inconsistency in the scheduling parameters of a task or project.
  Cause:
  The error can arise due to several reasons:
  
  Inconsistent Dates: The start and finish dates of a task may not align with the specified duration. For example, if the duration is set to 5 days, but the finish date is set to a date that is not 5 days after the start date, this inconsistency will trigger the error.
  Missing Data: Either the duration or the start/finish date may not be filled in, leading to an inability for the system to calculate the other parameter.
  Incorrect Time Units: The duration might be specified in a unit that does not match the expected format (e.g., hours instead of days).
  Project Structure Issues: If the project structure is not correctly defined, it may lead to scheduling conflicts.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:
  
  Check Dates and Duration: Review the start date, finish date, and duration of the task or project. Ensure that they are consistent with each other. Adjust the dates or duration as necessary.
  Fill in Missing Information: If either the duration or the start/finish date is missing, provide the necessary information.
  Validate Time Units: Ensure that the duration is specified in the correct time unit that the system expects.
  Review Project Structure: If applicable, check the overall project structure for any inconsistencies that might affect scheduling.
  Use Scheduling Functions: Utilize SAP's scheduling functions to automatically calculate and adjust dates and durations based on the project requirements.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like CJ20N (Project Builder) or CJI3 (Project Actual Line Items) to access and modify project details.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for detailed information on project scheduling and management.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address specific issues related to this error message.
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to make changes to project data.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in the relevant SAP module.