How To Fix /SAPAPO/MA766 - Enter a start date that comes before the end date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/MA -

• Message number: 766

• Message text: Enter a start date that comes before the end date

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/MA766 - Enter a start date that comes before the end date ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/MA766 Enter a start date that comes before the end date typically occurs in the context of SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) when a user is trying to enter a date range for a planning or forecasting activity. This error indicates that the start date you have entered is later than the end date, which is logically incorrect.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The most common cause is simply entering the dates in the wrong order. For example, entering a start date of March 10, 2023, and an end date of March 5, 2023.
  Date Format Issues: Sometimes, the date format may not be recognized correctly, leading to confusion in the order of dates.
  System Settings: In some cases, system settings or user profiles may affect how dates are interpreted.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Date Entries: Review the start and end dates you have entered. Ensure that the start date is earlier than the end date.
  Correct Date Format: Make sure that the dates are entered in the correct format as per your system's configuration (e.g., DD/MM/YYYY or MM/DD/YYYY).
  Use Calendar Picker: If available, use the calendar picker tool to select dates, which can help avoid manual entry errors.
  Validation: Implement validation checks in your process to ensure that the start date is always before the end date before submission.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the date range requirements for a specific transaction, refer to the relevant SAP documentation or user guides.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to date handling in your version of SAP APO.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to correctly enter date ranges in the system to minimize errors.
  System Configuration: Review system configuration settings related to date formats and validation rules to ensure they align with user expectations.
  
  If the problem persists after checking the above points, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or refer to SAP community forums for additional assistance.