How To Fix EL788 - For period category M you must specify time basis 1,2,3,4,6 or 12

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EL - IS-U meter reading data processing

• Message number: 788

• Message text: For period category M you must specify time basis 1,2,3,4,6 or 12

What causes this issue?

You have not specified a valid number for the period category M
(month).

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 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, or 12 months as the time basis.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EL788 - For period category M you must specify time basis 1,2,3,4,6 or 12 ?

  The SAP error message EL788 indicates that there is an issue with the configuration of the time basis for a specific period category (in this case, category M). This error typically arises in the context of planning or budgeting processes within SAP, particularly in modules like SAP Controlling (CO) or SAP Financial Accounting (FI).
  Cause:
  The error occurs when you attempt to execute a function or transaction that requires a time basis to be specified for period category M, but the system does not have a valid time basis defined. The time basis is a key parameter that determines how time-related data is processed, and it must be set to one of the valid options (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, or 12) for the operation to proceed.
  Solution:
  To resolve the EL788 error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Go to the configuration settings for the period categories in your SAP system. This can typically be found in the SAP Easy Access menu under:
  
  SPRO ? Controlling ? General Controlling ? Planning ? Define Period Categories.
  
  
  Ensure that period category M is correctly configured and that a valid time basis is assigned.
  
  
  
  Specify Time Basis:
  
  When executing the transaction or function that triggered the error, ensure that you specify a valid time basis (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, or 12) in the relevant fields. This may involve adjusting your input parameters or settings in the planning layout.
  
  
  
  Review User Input:
  
  If the error occurs during data entry, double-check the user input to ensure that all required fields are filled out correctly, including the time basis.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help files related to the specific transaction or module you are working with to understand the requirements for the time basis and period category.
  
  
  
  Contact Support:
  
  If you are unable to resolve the issue through configuration or user input, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Period Categories: These are used in planning and budgeting processes to define how data is aggregated over time (e.g., monthly, quarterly).
  Time Basis Options: The valid time basis options (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 12) typically correspond to different time intervals (e.g., monthly, quarterly, yearly).
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this error or provide additional guidance on configuration.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the EL788 error and continue with your planning or budgeting activities in SAP.