How To Fix /SAPAPO/RET_MESSAGES236 - Enter a start date

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/RET_MESSAGES -

• Message number: 236

• Message text: Enter a 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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/RET_MESSAGES236 - Enter a start date ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/RET_MESSAGES236 with the description "Enter a start date" typically occurs in the context of SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) when a user attempts to execute a function or transaction that requires a start date to be specified, but none has been provided.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Input: The most common cause of this error is that the user has not entered a start date in the relevant field before executing the transaction.
  Incorrect Configuration: In some cases, the configuration of the planning area or the specific transaction might require a start date that is not being provided.
  User Error: The user may have overlooked the requirement for a start date or may not be familiar with the input fields.
  
  Solution:
  
  Enter a Start Date: The immediate solution is to ensure that you enter a valid start date in the required field before executing the transaction. This date should be in the correct format as expected by the system.
  Check Transaction Requirements: Review the documentation or help text associated with the transaction to understand the requirements for input fields, including the start date.
  Consult Configuration: If you believe that the start date should not be mandatory, consult with your SAP Basis or APO configuration team to check if there are any settings that can be adjusted.
  User Training: If this error is common among users, consider providing training or documentation to help users understand the importance of entering a start date.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Identify the specific transaction code where the error occurs, as this can help in troubleshooting.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Forums: Look for discussions in SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been addressed.
  Documentation: Review the SAP APO documentation for details on the specific functionality you are trying to use, as it may provide insights into required fields and their significance.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team for further assistance.