How To Fix QA051 - Deletion periods for lots must be longer than the other periods

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: QA - QM : Inspection lots

• Message number: 051

• Message text: Deletion periods for lots must be longer than the other periods

What causes this issue?

Inspection lots must have the longest retention periods.

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?

Adapt the retention periods.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message QA051 - Deletion periods for lots must be longer than the other periods ?

  The SAP error message QA051, which states "Deletion periods for lots must be longer than the other periods," typically occurs in the context of Quality Management (QM) when dealing with lot management and deletion periods for inspection lots.
  Cause:
  This error arises when the deletion period set for inspection lots is shorter than the other relevant periods defined in the system. In SAP QM, there are various periods that govern how long data is retained, including:
  
  Retention Period for Inspection Lots: The time frame during which inspection lots must be retained.
  Deletion Period for Inspection Lots: The time frame after which inspection lots can be deleted.
  
  The system requires that the deletion period for lots must be longer than the retention period to ensure that lots are not deleted before they are no longer needed for quality checks or audits.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to adjust the deletion period for inspection lots in the configuration settings. Here are the steps to do this:
  
  
  Access the Configuration:
  
  Go to the SAP Easy Access screen.
  Navigate to the following path: SPRO -> SAP Reference IMG -> Quality Management -> Quality Inspection -> Inspection Lot Creation -> Define Deletion Periods for Inspection Lots.
  
  
  
  Adjust the Deletion Period:
  
  In the configuration settings, find the entry for the deletion period for inspection lots.
  Ensure that the deletion period is set to a value that is longer than the retention period for inspection lots.
  
  
  
  Save Changes:
  
  After making the necessary adjustments, save your changes.
  
  
  
  Test the Changes:
  
  After adjusting the settings, try to perform the action that previously triggered the error to ensure that it has been resolved.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Quality Management (QM): This module in SAP is responsible for managing quality processes, including inspection lot management, quality planning, and quality control.
  Inspection Lots: These are created during the quality inspection process to manage and track the quality of materials and products.
  Retention and Deletion Periods: These are critical for compliance and auditing purposes, ensuring that quality data is retained for the necessary duration.
  
  If you continue to experience issues after making these adjustments, it may be helpful to consult with your SAP administrator or a functional consultant who specializes in SAP QM for further assistance.