How To Fix /RPM/ITEM028 - Actual start &1 is later than actual finish &2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /RPM/ITEM -

• Message number: 028

• Message text: Actual start &1 is later than actual finish &2

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /RPM/ITEM028 - Actual start &1 is later than actual finish &2 ?

  The SAP error message /RPM/ITEM028 Actual start &1 is later than actual finish &2 typically occurs in the context of project management or resource management within SAP, particularly in the SAP Project System (PS) or Resource Management (RPM) modules. This error indicates that there is a logical inconsistency in the scheduling of activities or tasks, where the actual start date of a task is recorded as being later than its actual finish date.
  Cause:
  
  Data Entry Error: The most common cause is a manual data entry error where the actual start date was incorrectly entered after the actual finish date.
  System Integration Issues: If there are integrations with other systems or modules, discrepancies in data synchronization can lead to this error.
  Incorrect Time Settings: Time zone settings or date formats may lead to confusion in date entries.
  Project Changes: Changes in project scheduling or task dependencies that were not properly updated can also lead to this inconsistency.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review and Correct Dates: Check the actual start and finish dates for the affected task or activity. Correct the actual start date to ensure it is earlier than the actual finish date.
  Check Dependencies: Review the dependencies and relationships between tasks to ensure that they are logically sequenced.
  Data Validation: Implement data validation checks to prevent future occurrences of this error. This can include setting up rules that prevent the entry of an actual start date that is later than the actual finish date.
  Consult Documentation: If the error persists, consult SAP documentation or support for specific guidelines related to your version of SAP and the modules in use.
  Testing: After making corrections, test the changes in a development or test environment before applying them to the production environment.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like CJ20N (Project Builder) or CJI3 (Project Actual Line Items) to review and edit project data.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address known issues or provide patches related to this error.
  User Roles and Permissions: Ensure that users have the appropriate roles and permissions to make changes to project data.
  Training: Provide training for users on proper data entry practices to minimize the risk of similar errors in the future.
  
  If the issue continues after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with your SAP support team or a consultant who specializes in SAP project management to further investigate the root cause.