How To Fix ME343 - Comparison periods entered overlap

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ME - Purchasing: General Messages

• Message number: 343

• Message text: Comparison periods entered overlap

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ME343 - Comparison periods entered overlap ?

  The SAP error message ME343 ("Comparison periods entered overlap") typically occurs in the context of purchasing or inventory management when you are trying to analyze or compare data over specified time periods that overlap. This can happen in various transactions, such as when generating reports or performing evaluations that require distinct time frames.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when the periods you have defined for comparison overlap with each other. For example, if you are trying to compare data for January 2023 and February 2023, but you accidentally set the comparison periods to include part of January in February, SAP will raise this error.
  Solution:
  To resolve the ME343 error, you should:
  
  
  Check the Comparison Periods: Review the periods you have entered for comparison. Ensure that they are distinct and do not overlap. For example, if you are comparing Q1 and Q2, make sure that Q1 is defined as January to March and Q2 as April to June without any overlap.
  
  
  Adjust the Dates: Modify the start and end dates of the comparison periods so that they are clearly defined and do not intersect.
  
  
  Validate Input: If you are using a selection screen or input fields, double-check that the values entered are correct and that there are no typographical errors.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about how to set the comparison periods correctly, refer to the SAP documentation or help resources related to the specific transaction you are using.
  
  
  Test with Different Periods: If the issue persists, try using different periods to see if the error is specific to the dates you initially selected.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error can occur in various transaction codes related to purchasing and inventory management, such as ME2N (Purchase Orders by PO Number), ME3N (Outline Agreements), or ME80FN (General Analyses).
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this error or provide additional context or fixes.
  User Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to access the data for the periods you are trying to compare.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the ME343 error and successfully perform your analysis or reporting in SAP.