How To Fix /ASU/GENERAL059 - Task list &1 locked by user &2 - inserting new steps not possible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /ASU/GENERAL -

• Message number: 059

• Message text: Task list &1 locked by user &2 - inserting new steps not possible

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /ASU/GENERAL059 - Task list &1 locked by user &2 - inserting new steps not possible ?

  The SAP error message /ASU/GENERAL059 indicates that a task list (or a similar object) is currently locked by a user, which prevents any modifications, such as inserting new steps. This is a common issue in SAP systems when multiple users are trying to access or modify the same object simultaneously.
  Cause:
  
  User Lock: The task list is locked by another user who is currently editing it. This lock is typically in place to prevent data inconsistencies.
  Session Timeout: Sometimes, a user may have left a session open, causing the lock to persist even if they are no longer actively working on it.
  System Error: Occasionally, system errors or crashes can lead to locks that do not release properly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Identify the Locking User: Check who is currently locking the task list. You can do this by using transaction code SM12 (for lock entries) or SM21 (for system logs) to see which user has the lock.
  Contact the User: If possible, contact the user who has the lock and ask them to release it. They can do this by either saving their work and exiting or explicitly releasing the lock.
  Release the Lock Manually: If the user is unavailable or the lock is stale (e.g., due to a session timeout), an administrator can manually delete the lock entry in SM12. However, this should be done with caution to avoid data loss.
  Check for Background Jobs: Sometimes, background jobs may also hold locks. Check if any background jobs are running that might be causing the lock.
  Wait and Retry: If the lock is temporary, you may simply wait for the user to finish their work and then try again.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: To view and manage lock entries.
  SM21: To check system logs for any related issues.
  SE11: To check the structure of the task list if needed.
  
  
  User Management: Ensure that users are trained on how to properly exit transactions to avoid leaving locks behind.
  System Monitoring: Regularly monitor system performance and user activity to identify potential locking issues before they become problematic.
  
  Best Practices:
  
  Encourage users to save their work frequently and exit transactions when done.
  Implement a policy for handling locks, including who to contact and how to manage stale locks.
  Regularly review and optimize task lists to minimize the chances of concurrent access issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the /ASU/GENERAL059 error and manage task list locks effectively.