How To Fix /ISDFPS/FDP420 - Contingent start (&1) cannot be before operative start (&2)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /ISDFPS/FDP -

• Message number: 420

• Message text: Contingent start (&1) cannot be before operative start (&2)

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /ISDFPS/FDP420 - Contingent start (&1) cannot be before operative start (&2) ?

  The SAP error message /ISDFPS/FDP420 Contingent start (&1) cannot be before operative start (&2) typically occurs in the context of project management or resource planning within SAP, particularly when dealing with contingent activities or tasks that are dependent on other activities.
  Cause:
  This error indicates that there is a scheduling conflict between two activities:
  
  Contingent Start (&1): This is the start date of a contingent activity.
  Operative Start (&2): This is the start date of an operative activity.
  
  The error arises when the contingent start date is set to a time that is earlier than the operative start date. In project management, contingent activities are often dependent on the completion or initiation of operative activities, and thus cannot start before the operative activities have begun.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Dates: Review the start dates of both the contingent and operative activities. Ensure that the contingent start date is not set before the operative start date.
  
  
  Adjust Dates: If the contingent start date is indeed set incorrectly, adjust it to be on or after the operative start date.
  
  
  Review Dependencies: Check the dependencies between the activities. If the contingent activity is supposed to start after the operative activity, ensure that the dependency is correctly defined in the system.
  
  
  Consult Project Plan: If you are unsure about the correct dates, consult the project plan or relevant stakeholders to confirm the intended scheduling.
  
  
  Re-save Changes: After making the necessary adjustments, save the changes and check if the error persists.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may encounter this error while using transaction codes related to project management, such as CJ20N (Project Builder) or other related planning transactions.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for more information on project scheduling and dependencies.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues or provide additional guidance related to this error message.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in project management within SAP.