How To Fix WL857 - Latest start date & & is not in the future

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WL - Workflow: run-time messages

• Message number: 857

• Message text: Latest start date & & is not in the future

What causes this issue?

The specified start date for the work item is not in the future.

System Response

The action was terminated.

How to fix this error?

Please enter a start date in the future. This is also necessary for the
correct monitoring of the deadlines of a work item.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WL857 - Latest start date & & is not in the future ?

  The SAP error message WL857, which states "Latest start date & & is not in the future," typically occurs in the context of work scheduling or project management within SAP. This error indicates that the latest start date for a task or activity is set to a date that is not in the future, which can lead to scheduling conflicts or inconsistencies in project timelines.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The latest start date has been manually entered or calculated incorrectly, possibly set to a past date or the current date.
  System Date Settings: The system date on the server or user’s machine may be incorrectly set to a past date.
  Project Planning Errors: The project plan may have been set up incorrectly, leading to invalid date configurations.
  Dependencies and Constraints: There may be dependencies or constraints that are causing the latest start date to be calculated incorrectly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Date Entries: Review the latest start date entered for the task or activity. Ensure that it is set to a future date.
  Verify System Date: Check the system date on the server and the user’s machine to ensure it is set correctly to the current date.
  Adjust Project Plan: If the project plan is incorrect, adjust the scheduling parameters or dependencies to ensure that the latest start date is valid.
  Recalculate Dates: If applicable, use the scheduling or planning tools within SAP to recalculate the dates based on the current project status and constraints.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on managing dates and scheduling within your version of SAP.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may be using transaction codes like CJ20N (Project Builder), CATS (Cross-Application Time Sheets), or others related to project management and scheduling.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  User Permissions: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to modify project dates and schedules.
  Training and Support: If you are unsure about how to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with a colleague who has experience in project management within SAP.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the WL857 error and implement a solution to resolve it.