How To Fix ECM_VAL020 - Predecessor of context & is not released

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ECM_VAL - Engineering Change Management Validity

• Message number: 020

• Message text: Predecessor of context & is not released

What causes this issue?

Since the predecessor context is not released, the following statuses
(or the corresponding customer statuses) cannot be set for the context:
<LS>Active</>
<LS>Released</>

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?

First release all the predecessor contexts.

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 ECM_VAL020 - Predecessor of context & is not released ?

  The SAP error message ECM_VAL020 indicates that a predecessor of a context is not released. This typically occurs in the context of SAP's Engineering Change Management (ECM) module, where changes to products or processes are managed.
  Cause:
  The error arises when you attempt to perform an action (like releasing a change or a context) that requires a predecessor object (like a change request or change order) to be in a released state. If the predecessor is still in a draft or unreleased state, the system will prevent further actions to ensure that changes are properly managed and tracked.
  Solution:
  To resolve the ECM_VAL020 error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Identify the Predecessor: Check the context or change request you are trying to release and identify its predecessor. This can usually be found in the change management documentation or the change request details.
  
  
  Check Status: Go to the predecessor object and check its status. You can do this by navigating to the relevant transaction (like CC01 for creating change requests or CC02 for changing them).
  
  
  Release the Predecessor: If the predecessor is not released, you will need to release it. This can typically be done by:
  
  Opening the predecessor change request or order.
  Ensuring all necessary approvals and documentation are in place.
  Using the appropriate transaction (like CC02) to change the status to "Released".
  
  
  
  Retry the Action: Once the predecessor is released, go back to the original context and attempt the action again.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  CC01 - Create Change Request
  CC02 - Change Change Request
  CC03 - Display Change Request
  CC04 - Change Management Overview
  
  
  
  Authorization: Ensure you have the necessary authorizations to release change requests or orders. If you do not have the required permissions, contact your SAP administrator.
  
  
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help files related to Engineering Change Management for more detailed guidance on managing change requests and their statuses.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address specific issues or provide additional guidance related to ECM and error messages.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the ECM_VAL020 error and proceed with your change management activities in SAP.