How To Fix 5A097 - Overlapping records will be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 5A - Basis Personnel Management

• Message number: 097

• Message text: Overlapping records will be deleted

What causes this issue?

Records that overlap will be deleted.

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 5A097 - Overlapping records will be deleted ?

  The SAP error message 5A097 ("Overlapping records will be deleted") typically occurs in the context of managing master data, such as in the handling of time management or personnel records. This error indicates that there are overlapping records in the system that cannot coexist, and as a result, the system is set to delete one of the overlapping entries.
  Cause:
  The error is usually caused by:
  
  Overlapping Time Periods: When two or more records (e.g., time entries, personnel actions) have overlapping validity periods, the system identifies this conflict.
  Data Entry Errors: Incorrect data entry can lead to overlapping records, such as entering two different employment records for the same employee that cover the same time frame.
  System Configuration Issues: Sometimes, the configuration settings in SAP may not allow for overlapping records, leading to this error.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Identify Overlapping Records:
  
  Use transaction codes like SE16 or SE11 to check the relevant database tables (e.g., PA0000 for personnel actions) for overlapping records.
  Review the records to identify which entries are causing the overlap.
  
  
  
  Adjust Records:
  
  Modify the validity periods of the records to ensure that they do not overlap. This may involve changing the start or end dates of one or more records.
  If necessary, delete or archive the conflicting records if they are no longer needed.
  
  
  
  Data Validation:
  
  Implement data validation checks during data entry to prevent future overlaps. This can include setting up validation rules or using user exits to enforce business rules.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for specific guidelines related to the module you are working with (e.g., HR, Time Management).
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making changes, test the system to ensure that the error no longer occurs and that the records are processed correctly.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as PA30 (Maintain HR Master Data), PA20 (Display HR Master Data), and PT60 (Time Evaluation).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Roles: Ensure that users have the appropriate roles and authorizations to make changes to master data records.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with SAP support or a consultant who specializes in the specific module you are working with.