How To Fix /SAPAPO/MA246 - Start- and end date must be maintained

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/MA -

• Message number: 246

• Message text: Start- and end date must be maintained

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/MA246 - Start- and end date must be maintained ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/MA246 Start- and end date must be maintained typically occurs in the context of SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) when you are trying to create or modify a planning object (like a planning version, a key figure, or a planning area) without specifying the required start and end dates.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Dates: The most common cause of this error is that the start date and/or end date fields are left blank when they are required for the operation you are trying to perform.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration of the planning object may require these dates to be filled in, and if they are not, the system will throw this error.
  Data Entry Error: Sometimes, the dates may not be entered correctly due to user error or oversight.
  
  Solution:
  
  Enter Start and End Dates: Ensure that you fill in both the start date and end date fields in the relevant transaction or screen. These dates should reflect the period for which the planning object is valid.
  Check Configuration: If you are unsure why the dates are required, check the configuration settings for the planning object in question. You may need to consult with your SAP APO administrator or a functional consultant to understand the requirements.
  Validation: Before saving or executing the transaction, validate the input fields to ensure that all mandatory fields, including start and end dates, are filled in correctly.
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation or help files related to the specific transaction or planning object you are working with for additional guidance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on what you are trying to do, you may be using different transaction codes in SAP APO (e.g., /SAPAPO/SDP94 for planning book).
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to the planning objects, as sometimes restrictions can lead to confusion about required fields.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this error or provide additional context or solutions.
  Testing: If you are in a development or testing environment, try replicating the issue with different data to see if the error persists, which can help in diagnosing the problem.
  
  If the issue continues after following these steps, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team for further assistance.