How To Fix CGPL_OBJECT_SERVICES014 - Finish date is earlier than start date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CGPL_OBJECT_SERVICES - Project Planning - Object Services Message Class

• Message number: 014

• Message text: Finish date is earlier than start date

What causes this issue?

You entered a finish date that occurs before the start date for the
project element &V1&.

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?

Enter a finish date that occurs after the start date.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CGPL_OBJECT_SERVICES014 - Finish date is earlier than start date ?

  The SAP error message CGPL_OBJECT_SERVICES014 indicates that there is a problem with the scheduling of a service or project, specifically that the finish date is set earlier than the start date. This is a logical error, as a task cannot logically end before it begins.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The most common cause is that the user has mistakenly entered the finish date before the start date.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from another system, there may be inconsistencies in date formats or values.
  System Configuration: There may be issues with how the system is configured to handle date inputs.
  User Error: Users may not be aware of the correct sequence of dates when entering or updating records.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Date Entries: Review the start and finish dates in the relevant transaction or record. Ensure that the finish date is later than the start date.
  Correct the Dates: If the finish date is indeed earlier than the start date, update the finish date to a valid date that is after the start date.
  Validation Rules: Implement validation rules in the system to prevent users from entering invalid date combinations in the future.
  Training: Provide training to users on how to correctly enter dates and understand the implications of date entries in project management.
  Review Data Migration: If the issue arose from data migration, review the migration process to ensure that date formats and values are correctly handled.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may be using transaction codes like CGPL (Project Management) or others related to service management.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to date handling in your specific version of SAP.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for guidelines on date management and project scheduling.
  Support: If the issue persists after checking the above, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.
  
  By addressing the root cause of the error and ensuring proper data entry practices, you can resolve the issue and prevent it from occurring in the future.