How To Fix A_002 - Finish date lies before start date - system will switch the dates

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: A_ - Connection ATP - APO

• Message number: 002

• Message text: Finish date lies before start date - system will switch the dates

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message A_002 - Finish date lies before start date - system will switch the dates ?

  The SAP error message A_002, which states "Finish date lies before start date - system will switch the dates," typically occurs in the context of project management or scheduling within SAP. This error indicates that the finish date you have entered for a task or activity is earlier than the start date, which is logically incorrect.
  Cause:
  
  Data Entry Error: The most common cause is a simple mistake in entering the dates. The finish date was entered incorrectly, or the start date was set later than intended.
  System Configuration: In some cases, the system configuration or settings may lead to unexpected behavior regarding date handling.
  Dependencies: If there are dependencies or constraints set on the task, they may inadvertently cause the finish date to be calculated incorrectly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Dates: Review the start and finish dates you have entered. Ensure that the finish date is indeed later than the start date.
  Adjust Dates: If you find that the finish date is incorrect, update it to a date that is after the start date.
  Review Dependencies: If the task has dependencies, check if they are affecting the dates. Adjust them if necessary.
  System Settings: If the issue persists, consult with your SAP administrator to check if there are any system settings or configurations that need to be adjusted.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: This error can occur in various transaction codes related to project management, such as CJ20N (Project Builder) or CJ02 (Change Project).
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for more information on date handling and project scheduling.
  User Exits and BAdIs: If custom logic is implemented in your SAP system, check for any user exits or BAdIs that might be affecting date calculations.
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that might address known issues or bugs related to date handling.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the A_002 error and ensure that your project scheduling is accurate.