How To Fix /SAPAPO/FCST088 - The start value is larger than or equal to the end value

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/FCST -

• Message number: 088

• Message text: The start value is larger than or equal to the end value

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/FCST088 - The start value is larger than or equal to the end value ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/FCST088 indicates that there is an issue with the forecast data in SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO). Specifically, the error states that the "start value is larger than or equal to the end value," which typically occurs when defining a time period for forecasting.
  Cause:
  This error usually arises in the following scenarios:
  
  Incorrect Time Period Definition: When setting up a forecast, the start date/time is incorrectly defined to be the same as or later than the end date/time.
  Data Entry Errors: Manual entry of dates or periods may lead to mistakes where the start date is inadvertently set to a later date than the end date.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the configuration of the forecasting model or planning book that lead to this inconsistency.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Forecast Settings:
  
  Navigate to the forecast settings in the relevant planning book or forecasting model.
  Ensure that the start date/time is set to an earlier value than the end date/time.
  
  
  
  Review Data Entries:
  
  If you are entering data manually, double-check the values for the start and end dates to ensure they are correct.
  Look for any typos or incorrect entries that may have led to this error.
  
  
  
  Adjust Time Periods:
  
  If you are using a time series or a planning cycle, ensure that the defined periods do not overlap incorrectly and that the start and end dates are logically set.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review the SAP documentation or help files related to forecasting in APO for any specific guidelines or best practices regarding date settings.
  
  
  
  Test with Sample Data:
  
  If possible, create a test scenario with sample data to see if the error persists. This can help isolate whether the issue is with specific data entries or a broader configuration problem.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. They may provide insights based on the specific configuration of your system.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  User Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  Training: Consider training sessions or workshops on SAP APO forecasting to better understand the configuration and data entry processes.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and correct the cause of the /SAPAPO/FCST088 error message.