IW188 - Superior order & already completed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IW - Order Processing

• Message number: 188

• Message text: Superior order & already completed

What causes this issue?

You entered an already technically completed
<GL:maintenance_order>maintenance order</> as superior order. This is
not allowed.
The superior order stands for the total task, that may not by completed
before the individual part tasks.

System Response

INCLUDE 'KEINE-VERARBEITUNG' OBJECT DOKU ID TX LANGUAGE E

How to fix this error?

Check your entry and correct it if necessary.
If it is the correct order, contact the employee responsible for the
total task.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message IW188 - Superior order & already completed ?

  The SAP error message IW188 ("Superior order & already completed") typically occurs in the context of maintenance orders or work orders when you attempt to perform an action on a subordinate order that is linked to a superior order that has already been completed. This can happen in various scenarios, such as trying to confirm work, change status, or perform other operations on the subordinate order.
  Cause:
  
  Superior Order Completed: The primary cause of this error is that the superior order (the parent order) has been marked as completed. In SAP, once a superior order is completed, it may restrict any further actions on its subordinate orders.
  Order Status: The status of the superior order may not allow for changes or confirmations to be made on the subordinate orders.
  Dependencies: There may be dependencies or relationships defined in the system that prevent actions on subordinate orders if the superior order is completed.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Superior Order Status: Review the status of the superior order. If it is indeed completed, you may need to assess whether any further actions are necessary on the subordinate order.
  Reopen Superior Order: If you need to make changes to the subordinate order, you may need to reopen the superior order. This can typically be done by changing its status back to a working status, if your business process allows for it.
  Consult with Your Team: Discuss with your project or maintenance team to determine if the actions you are trying to perform on the subordinate order are necessary and if they can be justified despite the superior order being completed.
  Use Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like IW32 (Change Order) or IW33 (Display Order) to check the details of the orders involved and their statuses.
  Documentation: Ensure that all necessary documentation and approvals are in place if you need to make changes to completed orders, as this may affect reporting and compliance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Order Hierarchy: Understanding the hierarchy of orders in SAP is crucial. Familiarize yourself with how superior and subordinate orders are structured in your organization.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes and Knowledge Base Articles for any specific patches or updates related to this error message.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to change the status of orders in SAP.
  Training: If you frequently encounter this error, consider additional training on SAP order management and the implications of order statuses.
  
  If the issue persists or if you are unsure about the appropriate actions to take, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in SAP PM (Plant Maintenance) or SAP MM (Materials Management).