IM472 - Malfunction end is before malfunction start

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IM - Maintenance notifications

• Message number: 472

• Message text: Malfunction end is before malfunction start

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message IM472 - Malfunction end is before malfunction start ?

  The SAP error message IM472 ("Malfunction end is before malfunction start") typically occurs in the context of maintenance management, particularly when dealing with malfunction reports or notifications in the SAP Plant Maintenance (PM) module. This error indicates that the end date/time of a malfunction is set to a time that is earlier than the start date/time, which is logically incorrect.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date/Time Entry: The most common cause of this error is that the user has entered the end date/time of the malfunction incorrectly, making it earlier than the start date/time.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from another system, there may be inconsistencies in the date/time formats or values.
  System Configuration: In some cases, system settings or configurations may lead to unexpected behavior in date/time handling.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Date/Time Entries: Review the malfunction report or notification to ensure that the start and end dates/times are entered correctly. The end date/time should always be later than the start date/time.
  Correct the Data: If you find that the end date/time is incorrect, update it to a valid value that is after the start date/time.
  Validation Rules: Implement validation rules in the system to prevent users from entering incorrect date/time values in the future.
  Data Migration Review: If the issue arose from data migration, review the migration process to ensure that date/time values are correctly formatted and valid.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for additional guidance on handling malfunction reports and notifications.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to correctly enter and manage malfunction reports to minimize the occurrence of this error.
  System Logs: Review system logs for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  Support: If the problem persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the IM472 error and ensure that malfunction reports are accurately recorded in the system.