How To Fix /ISDFPS/FDP421 - Contingent start (&1) cannot be after operative end (&2)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /ISDFPS/FDP -

• Message number: 421

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

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /ISDFPS/FDP421 - Contingent start (&1) cannot be after operative end (&2) ?

  The SAP error message /ISDFPS/FDP421 indicates that there is a problem with the scheduling of contingent activities in a project or process. Specifically, the error states that the contingent start date (represented by &1) cannot be after the operative end date (represented by &2). This typically occurs in the context of project management or production planning within SAP.
  Cause:
  
  Date Configuration: The contingent start date is set to a date that is later than the operative end date. This can happen due to incorrect data entry or misconfiguration of dates in the project or task settings.
  Project Timeline Issues: The project timeline may not be properly aligned, leading to scheduling conflicts where contingent activities are planned to start after the main activities have ended.
  Dependencies: There may be dependencies or relationships between tasks that have not been correctly defined, causing the system to interpret the dates incorrectly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Dates: Review the contingent start date and the operative end date in the relevant project or task. Ensure that the contingent start date is set to a date that is on or before the operative end date.
  Adjust Scheduling: If the contingent activity is indeed supposed to start after the operative end date, you may need to adjust the operative end date or the contingent start date accordingly.
  Review Dependencies: Check the dependencies between tasks to ensure that they are correctly defined. If necessary, adjust the relationships to reflect the correct sequence of activities.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or guidelines for project scheduling to ensure that you are following best practices for setting up dates and dependencies.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use specific transaction codes related to project management or production planning to access and modify the relevant data (e.g., CJ20N for project management).
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message for additional insights or patches that may address known issues.
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the appropriate permissions to make changes to project schedules and dates within SAP.
  
  If the issue persists after checking and adjusting the dates, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in project management within SAP.