How To Fix RECABC016 - &1: time periods &2 and &3 overlap

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RECABC - Basis (Technical Objects - Library)

• Message number: 016

• Message text: &1: time periods &2 and &3 overlap

What causes this issue?

The two time periods overlap. Overlapping time periods are not allowed.

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?

Correct one of the time periods so that there is no more overlap.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RECABC016 - &1: time periods &2 and &3 overlap ?

  The SAP error message RECABC016 indicates that there is an overlap in time periods for a specific record or entry in the system. This typically occurs in contexts where time periods are defined, such as in project management, resource planning, or scheduling. The error message format suggests that the time periods specified (denoted as &2 and &3) are conflicting, meaning that the start and end dates of these periods overlap in a way that is not allowed by the system's rules.
  Cause:
  
  Overlapping Time Periods: The most common cause is that two or more records have been created with overlapping start and end dates. For example, if one record is set to run from January 1 to January 10, and another is set from January 5 to January 15, this will trigger the error.
  Incorrect Data Entry: Manual data entry errors can lead to incorrect time period definitions.
  System Configuration: In some cases, the configuration settings in SAP may not allow overlapping periods for certain types of records.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Time Periods: Check the records associated with the time periods mentioned in the error message. Identify the overlapping entries and adjust the dates to ensure that they do not conflict.
  Modify Records: Change the start and/or end dates of one or more of the conflicting records to eliminate the overlap.
  Data Validation: Implement data validation checks to prevent users from entering overlapping time periods in the future.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP administrator to understand the specific rules regarding time periods for the module you are working with.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context (e.g., project management, HR, etc.), you may need to use specific transaction codes to view or edit the records causing the error.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Roles and Permissions: Ensure that users have the appropriate permissions to modify the records in question, as restrictions may prevent them from making necessary changes.
  Testing: After making changes, test the system to ensure that the error no longer occurs and that the records function as intended.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team for further assistance.