How To Fix RSM038 - Row '&' overlaps with the preceding rows

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RSM -

• Message number: 038

• Message text: Row '&' overlaps with the preceding rows

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RSM038 - Row '&' overlaps with the preceding rows ?

  The SAP error message RSM038, which states "Row '&' overlaps with the preceding rows," typically occurs in the context of data entry or processing in SAP systems, particularly when dealing with time management or scheduling data. This error indicates that there is a conflict in the time intervals or data entries that you are trying to input, where the specified row overlaps with a previous entry.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is that the time intervals or data entries you are trying to enter are not mutually exclusive. For example, if you are entering time data for employees, and the time period for one entry overlaps with another entry for the same employee, SAP will throw this error. This can happen due to:
  
  Incorrect Time Entries: Entering overlapping time periods for the same employee or resource.
  Data Duplication: Attempting to enter duplicate records that have the same time frame.
  Misconfigured Time Management Settings: Issues in the configuration of time management settings that do not allow for overlapping entries.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the RSM038 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review the Entries: Check the entries you are trying to input. Ensure that there are no overlapping time periods for the same employee or resource. Each entry should have a distinct time frame.
  
  
  Adjust Time Periods: Modify the time periods of the entries so that they do not overlap. This may involve changing start and end dates/times to ensure they are sequential rather than overlapping.
  
  
  Check for Duplicates: Ensure that you are not trying to enter duplicate records. If a record already exists for the same time period, you will need to either modify or delete the existing record.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the correct time entries, refer to your organization's time management policies or SAP documentation for guidance on how to enter time data correctly.
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes: If you are using specific transaction codes (like PA30 for HR data), ensure you are following the correct procedures for entering data.
  
  
  Seek Help from IT Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or IT department for assistance. They may have additional tools or insights to help troubleshoot the problem.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that may help in managing time entries, such as PA30 (Maintain HR Master Data) or PT60 (Time Evaluation).
  Training: Consider training sessions or resources on SAP time management to better understand how to manage entries without causing overlaps.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and correct the cause of the RSM038 error in your SAP system.