How To Fix CATS_ESA014 - Enddate is earlier than startdate

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CATS_ESA - Messages for ESA CATS Services

• Message number: 014

• Message text: Enddate is earlier than startdate

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CATS_ESA014 - Enddate is earlier than startdate ?

  The SAP error message CATS_ESA014 indicates that there is a problem with the dates entered in the Cross-Application Time Sheet (CATS) system. Specifically, the error states that the end date is earlier than the start date, which is logically incorrect and prevents the system from processing the time entry.
  Cause:
  The error typically arises from one of the following scenarios:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The user has mistakenly entered an end date that is before the start date.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from another system, there may be inconsistencies in the date formats or values.
  User Input Error: Users may inadvertently select the wrong dates due to interface issues or misunderstanding of the date fields.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the CATS_ESA014 error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Date Entries:
  
  Review the time entry form where the error occurred.
  Ensure that the start date is earlier than the end date. If not, correct the dates accordingly.
  
  
  
  Validate Date Format:
  
  Ensure that the date format is consistent with the system's requirements (e.g., DD/MM/YYYY or MM/DD/YYYY).
  
  
  
  Re-enter Data:
  
  If the dates appear correct but the error persists, try clearing the fields and re-entering the dates.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or user manuals for guidance on entering time data correctly.
  
  
  
  Check for System Updates:
  
  Ensure that your SAP system is up to date, as bugs or issues may have been resolved in newer versions.
  
  
  
  Contact Support:
  
  If the issue cannot be resolved through the above steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with a technical expert.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  CATS (Cross-Application Time Sheet): This is a tool in SAP that allows employees to record their working hours and activities. It integrates with various SAP modules, including HR and Project Management.
  Date Validation: SAP systems often have built-in validation rules to ensure data integrity. Understanding these rules can help prevent similar errors in the future.
  User Training: Providing training for users on how to correctly enter time data can help minimize errors and improve data accuracy.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the CATS_ESA014 error and successfully enter your time data in SAP.