How To Fix /RPM/PLANNING201 - Invalid dates: finish is before start

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /RPM/PLANNING -

• Message number: 201

• Message text: Invalid dates: finish is before start

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /RPM/PLANNING201 - Invalid dates: finish is before start ?

  The SAP error message /RPM/PLANNING201 Invalid dates: finish is before start typically occurs in the context of project management or planning within the SAP system, particularly when dealing with project scheduling or resource planning. This error indicates that the finish date of a task or project is set to a date that is earlier than its start date, which is logically incorrect.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The most common cause is that the user has mistakenly entered the finish date before the start date.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from another system, there may be inconsistencies in date formats or values.
  System Configuration: There may be issues with how the system is configured to handle date inputs.
  User Input Error: Users may inadvertently select the wrong dates due to interface issues or misunderstanding.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Dates: Review the start and finish dates for the task or project in question. Ensure that the finish date is set to a date that is on or after the start date.
  Correct Input: If the dates are incorrect, update the finish date to a valid date that is after the start date.
  Validation Rules: Ensure that any validation rules or constraints in the system are correctly set up to prevent this error in the future.
  Data Review: If the error arises from migrated data, review the data for inconsistencies and correct any erroneous entries.
  User Training: Provide training to users on how to correctly enter dates in the system to avoid future errors.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for project management and planning modules to understand how date fields are handled.
  Support: If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and ensure that your project planning dates are correctly set.