How To Fix IW542 - Enter a preceding order for the follow-on order

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IW - Order Processing

• Message number: 542

• Message text: Enter a preceding order for the follow-on order

What causes this issue?

You want to create a new maintenance order as a follow-on order and have
therefore selected the <LS>Create Follow-On Order</> checkbox. You have
chosen <ZK>Enter</> without defining for which preceding order you wish
to create the follow-on order.

System Response

The system does not create the new order.

How to fix this error?

In the field <LS>Order</>, enter the order number of the preceding order
for which the new order should be created as a follow-on order or
deselect the <LS>Create Follow-On Order</> checkbox.

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

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 IW542 - Enter a preceding order for the follow-on order ?

  The SAP error message IW542 ("Enter a preceding order for the follow-on order") typically occurs in the context of maintenance orders or production orders when you are trying to create a follow-on order (such as a maintenance order that is dependent on a preceding order) without specifying the required preceding order.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Preceding Order: The follow-on order you are trying to create requires a reference to a preceding order, but this reference has not been provided.
  Incorrect Order Type: The order type you are using may not be configured to allow follow-on orders without a preceding order.
  System Configuration: The system may not be set up correctly to handle the relationship between the orders.
  
  Solution:
  
  Enter Preceding Order: When creating the follow-on order, ensure that you enter the correct preceding order number in the relevant field. This is usually done in the order creation screen.
  Check Order Type Configuration: Verify that the order type you are using allows for follow-on orders and that it is configured correctly in the system.
  Review Order Relationships: If you are unsure about the preceding order, check the existing orders in the system to identify which order should be referenced.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or your organization's SAP guidelines for specific instructions on handling follow-on orders.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to create follow-on orders in the system.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as IW31 (Create Order), IW32 (Change Order), and IW33 (Display Order) to manage orders effectively.
  Order Types: Understand the different order types in your SAP system and their relationships to ensure proper order management.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message for additional insights or patches that may resolve the issue.
  Training and Support: If you continue to face issues, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or attending training sessions to better understand order management in SAP.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the IW542 error and successfully create the follow-on order.