How To Fix 5W017 - Element &1 referenced object type &2, which cannot be edited.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 5W - Messages for PD (Particularly Workflow)

• Message number: 017

• Message text: Element &1 referenced object type &2, which cannot be edited.

What causes this issue?

Element &V1& of the Workflow container referenced an object of type
&v2&. This type of object cannot be edited in this customer/standard
task.

How to fix this error?

Please check the definition of element &v1& in the Workflow container.
If necessary, you can delete the event and create it again with another
object type.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 5W017 - Element &1 referenced object type &2, which cannot be edited. ?

  The SAP error message 5W017 indicates that you are trying to edit an element that is not editable due to its current status or configuration. This error typically occurs in the context of SAP's data management or configuration settings, particularly in areas like project management, master data, or configuration settings.
  Cause:
  The error message "Element &1 referenced object type &2, which cannot be edited" usually arises from one of the following reasons:
  
  
  Status Restrictions: The object you are trying to edit may be in a status that does not allow modifications. For example, it could be locked, completed, or in a state that prohibits changes.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary permissions to edit the specified object. This can happen if the user role does not include edit rights for that particular object type.
  
  
  Configuration Settings: Certain configuration settings in the system may prevent editing of specific elements. This could be due to system settings or business rules defined in the configuration.
  
  
  Object Type Limitations: Some object types are inherently non-editable once they reach a certain state or are linked to other objects that restrict changes.
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Object Status: Verify the status of the object you are trying to edit. If it is in a non-editable state, you may need to change its status or unlock it if applicable.
  
  
  Review Authorizations: Ensure that your user role has the necessary permissions to edit the object. You may need to contact your SAP security administrator to review and adjust your authorizations.
  
  
  Consult Configuration Settings: If you suspect that configuration settings are causing the issue, consult with your SAP configuration team to understand if there are any restrictions in place for the object type you are trying to edit.
  
  
  Check Dependencies: Investigate if the object is linked to other objects that may restrict editing. If so, you may need to address those dependencies first.
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes: If applicable, use specific transaction codes to check the status or properties of the object. For example, transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE80 (Object Navigator), or others relevant to your context can provide insights.
  
  
  Documentation and Support: Refer to SAP documentation or support notes related to the specific object type and error message. SAP's support portal may have additional insights or patches that address this issue.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that can help you navigate and troubleshoot the issue.
  User Roles and Authorizations: Understand the role-based access control in your SAP system to ensure you have the right permissions.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.