How To Fix CJ563 - Finish date is earlier than start date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CJ - Project master data and structure

• Message number: 563

• Message text: Finish date is earlier than start date

What causes this issue?

You entered a finish date for the WBS element that is earlier than the
start date of the WBS element.

System Response

INCLUDE 'NA_ALLG_NOVERARBEITUNG' OBJECT DOKU ID TX

How to fix this error?

Enter a different finish date for the WBS element.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CJ563 - Finish date is earlier than start date ?

  The SAP error message CJ563 ("Finish date is earlier than start date") typically occurs in the context of project management within SAP, particularly when dealing with project definitions, work breakdown structures (WBS), or network activities. This error indicates that the finish date of a task or activity is set to a date that is earlier than its start date, which is logically inconsistent.
  Causes:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The most common cause is simply entering the dates incorrectly. This can happen due to typographical errors or misunderstanding of the date format.
  Date Changes: If the start date of a task was changed after the finish date was set, it could lead to this error.
  Dependencies: If there are dependencies between tasks, changing the start date of a predecessor task might inadvertently cause the finish date of a successor task to be earlier than its start date.
  System Configuration: In some cases, system settings or configurations might lead to unexpected behavior regarding date calculations.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Dates: Review the start and finish dates of the affected task or activity. Ensure that the finish date is indeed later than the start date.
  Adjust Dates: If the finish date is incorrect, update it to a date that is later than the start date. If the start date is incorrect, adjust it accordingly.
  Review Dependencies: If the task is part of a network or has dependencies, check the related tasks to ensure that their dates are set correctly and that they do not conflict.
  Use Date Calculation Tools: If available, use any date calculation tools or features within SAP to help determine appropriate dates based on project timelines.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the correct dates, consult project documentation or speak with project stakeholders to clarify the intended schedule.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may encounter this error while using transaction codes such as CJ20N (Project Builder), CJ02 (Change Project), or CJ03 (Display Project).
  Project Management Best Practices: Ensure that project management best practices are followed, including regular reviews of project timelines and dependencies.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes or the SAP Support Portal for any known issues or patches related to project management date handling.
  User Training: Ensure that users involved in project management are adequately trained in using SAP and understand how to manage dates and dependencies effectively.
  
  By addressing the root cause of the error and ensuring that all dates are logically consistent, you can resolve the CJ563 error and continue with your project management tasks in SAP.