How To Fix /SAPAPO/MSDP_REL260 - The end date cannot be earlier than the start date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/MSDP_REL -

• Message number: 260

• Message text: The end date cannot be earlier than the start date

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/MSDP_REL260 - The end date cannot be earlier than the start date ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/MSDP_REL260 indicates that there is a problem with the date settings in your planning or scheduling process. Specifically, it means that the end date you have specified is earlier than the start date, which is logically incorrect.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Input: The most common cause is that the user has entered an end date that is earlier than the start date in a planning or scheduling transaction.
  Data Entry Error: This could be due to a typographical error or misunderstanding of the date format.
  System Configuration: In some cases, the system configuration or settings may lead to incorrect date calculations or defaults.
  Master Data Issues: If the dates are derived from master data (like production orders, purchase orders, etc.), there may be inconsistencies in the master data.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Date Inputs: Review the start and end dates you have entered. Ensure that the end date is indeed later than the start date.
  Correct Date Format: Make sure that the date format you are using is consistent with the system's expected format (e.g., DD/MM/YYYY vs. MM/DD/YYYY).
  Review Related Data: If the dates are derived from other data, check the related master data or transaction data to ensure that all dates are correctly set.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the expected date ranges for a specific transaction, refer to the SAP documentation or help files for guidance.
  System Configuration: If the issue persists, consult with your SAP Basis or configuration team to check if there are any settings that might be affecting date calculations.
  Testing: After making corrections, test the transaction again to ensure that the error is resolved.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with the relevant transaction codes that may be involved in the planning or scheduling process (e.g., /SAPAPO/SDP94 for planning).
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to correctly enter dates in the system to avoid similar errors in the future.
  Error Logs: Review system logs for any additional error messages that may provide more context about the issue.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and ensure that your date inputs are valid.