How To Fix QA253 - The preparatory steps for the quality inspection could not be completed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: QA - QM : Inspection lots

• Message number: 253

• Message text: The preparatory steps for the quality inspection could not be completed

What causes this issue?

An inspection with reference to a task list or a material specification
is available for this item. Inspection specifications have been
assigned, but the sample size not yet calculated. This may be due to
the following:
The quality level for the lot is currently being processed by a
different user.
The control chart is locked.

System Response

This results in the following:
The inspection specifications cannot be evaluated.
A skip-lot inspection is not possible.
Both the sample-drawing instruction and the inspection instruction
cannot be printed out immediately.

How to fix this error?

Activate the sample calculation function subsequently in the
<DS:TRAN.QA02> 'Change inspection lot'</> transaction.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message QA253 - The preparatory steps for the quality inspection could not be completed ?

  The SAP error message QA253, which states "The preparatory steps for the quality inspection could not be completed," typically occurs during the quality inspection process in SAP Quality Management (QM). This error can arise due to various reasons, and understanding the cause is essential for finding a solution.
  Causes of Error QA253
  
  
  Missing Master Data: The necessary master data for the inspection lot, such as material master data, quality info records, or inspection plans, may be incomplete or missing.
  
  
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration settings for quality management may not be set up correctly. This includes settings related to inspection types, quality inspection plans, or the assignment of inspection characteristics.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to perform the quality inspection or to access the required data.
  
  
  Batch Management Issues: If batch management is enabled, there may be issues with batch determination or batch status that prevent the inspection from being processed.
  
  
  Document Flow Issues: There may be inconsistencies in the document flow, such as missing or incomplete preceding documents (e.g., purchase orders, production orders).
  
  
  System Errors: There could be temporary system errors or issues with the SAP environment that are causing the process to fail.
  
  
  Solutions to Error QA253
  
  
  Check Master Data: Ensure that all relevant master data (material master, inspection plans, etc.) is complete and correctly configured. Verify that the material is set up for quality inspection.
  
  
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings in the Quality Management module. Ensure that the inspection types and characteristics are correctly defined and assigned.
  
  
  Authorization Check: Verify that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the quality inspection. This can be done by checking the user's roles and authorizations in the SAP system.
  
  
  Batch Management Review: If batch management is used, check the status of the batches involved. Ensure that the batches are available and not blocked or restricted.
  
  
  Document Flow Verification: Review the document flow related to the inspection lot. Ensure that all preceding documents are complete and correctly processed.
  
  
  System Logs and Notes: Check the system logs (transaction SLG1) for any additional error messages or information that may provide more context about the issue. Also, consult SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error.
  
  
  Consult SAP Support: If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. They may provide specific guidance based on the system configuration and version.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as QA01 (Create Inspection Lot), QA02 (Change Inspection Lot), and QA03 (Display Inspection Lot) to manage inspection lots effectively.
  Quality Management Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to Quality Management for best practices and configuration guidelines.
  Training and Resources: Consider training sessions or resources on SAP QM to better understand the processes and configurations involved.
  
  By systematically addressing these areas, you should be able to resolve the QA253 error and successfully complete the quality inspection process.