How To Fix MD158 - Please enter start date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MD - Material Requirements Planning (MRP)

• Message number: 158

• Message text: Please enter start date

What causes this issue?

You must enter a start date to convert a simulative version to an
operative version.

System Response

If you convert a simulative version, the system copies the independent
requirements from the simulative version to the specific target
version. You should enter the complete time period for the conversion
so that the system does not delete all existing requirements for the
operative version. You must enter at least the start date to convert
the version.

How to fix this error?

Enter a start date for the conversion.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MD158 - Please enter start date ?

  The SAP error message MD158, which states "Please enter start date," typically occurs in the context of planning or scheduling activities within the SAP system, particularly in the Material Requirements Planning (MRP) module. This error indicates that a required field for the start date has not been filled in, which is necessary for the system to process the planning or scheduling request.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Input: The most common cause is that the user has not entered a start date in the relevant field when trying to execute a planning transaction.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the planning parameters that require a start date to be specified.
  User Authorization: Sometimes, the user may not have the necessary authorizations to access certain fields or transactions, leading to incomplete data entry.
  
  Solution:
  
  Enter Start Date: The immediate solution is to ensure that you enter a valid start date in the required field. This is usually found in the planning transaction screen where you are trying to execute the MRP run or similar activities.
  Check Configuration: If you are consistently encountering this error, check the configuration settings in the MRP parameters to ensure that the start date is not set as a mandatory field without a default value.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on the necessary fields and data entry requirements for the transactions they are performing.
  Authorization Check: Verify that the user has the appropriate authorizations to access and modify the necessary fields in the transaction.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: This error may occur in various transaction codes related to MRP, such as MD01 (MRP Run), MD02 (Single-item, Multi-level Planning), etc.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common errors.
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP Help Portal or the specific documentation for the MRP module for more detailed information on required fields and planning parameters.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in MRP processes.