How To Fix KO216 - The highest status may not be lower than the current status

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KO - Master data for CO orders

• Message number: 216

• Message text: The highest status may not be lower than the current status

What causes this issue?

The value you entered as highest status is less than that of the status
you are currently maintaining.

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 a value for the highest status that is greater than, or equal to
the current status.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KO216 - The highest status may not be lower than the current status ?

  The SAP error message KO216, "The highest status may not be lower than the current status," typically occurs in the context of controlling (CO) and project management (PS) modules when there is an attempt to change the status of a project or order to a status that is lower than its current status. This can happen when trying to release or close an order or project that is already in a higher status.
  Cause:
  
  Status Hierarchy Violation: Each status in SAP has a defined hierarchy. For example, if an order is currently in a "Released" status, it cannot be changed to a "Created" or "Planned" status, as these are considered lower in the hierarchy.
  Incorrect Status Change Attempt: The user may be trying to perform an action that is not allowed based on the current status of the order or project.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues with the configuration of status profiles that define the allowed transitions between statuses.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Current Status: Review the current status of the order or project. You can do this by navigating to the relevant transaction (e.g., CO03 for orders, CJ20N for projects) and checking the status overview.
  Allowed Status Changes: Refer to the status profile associated with the order or project to understand the allowed transitions. You can find this in the configuration settings or documentation.
  Change to a Higher Status: If you need to change the status, ensure that you are moving to a higher status instead of a lower one. For example, if the order is released, you may need to complete or close it instead of trying to revert to a lower status.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the status hierarchy, consult the SAP documentation or your organization's SAP support team for guidance on the specific status profiles in use.
  Authorization Check: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to change the status of the order or project.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Status Profiles: These are defined in the configuration settings of SAP and determine the allowed status transitions for different types of orders or projects.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CO03 (Display Order), CJ20N (Project Builder), and others that may be relevant to your work.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message for additional insights or patches that may address specific issues.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team or consult with an SAP expert for further assistance.