How To Fix BK254 - The controlling document &1 is already being used by user &2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BK - Create, Display, Reverse Controlling Document

• Message number: 254

• Message text: The controlling document &1 is already being used by user &2

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BK254 - The controlling document &1 is already being used by user &2 ?

  The SAP error message BK254 indicates that a controlling document (such as a cost center, internal order, or other controlling objects) is currently being accessed or locked by another user. This typically occurs in the context of financial transactions or postings where multiple users may attempt to access or modify the same document simultaneously.
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Access: Another user is currently processing or editing the same controlling document.
  Session Lock: The document may be locked due to an open session or transaction that has not been completed or released.
  Long-running Transactions: If a user is taking a long time to complete a transaction, it can lead to locks on the document.
  System Configuration: Certain configurations in the SAP system may lead to more frequent locking of documents.
  
  Solution:
  
  Wait and Retry: The simplest solution is to wait for the other user to complete their transaction and then try again.
  Identify the User: If you have the necessary permissions, you can check which user is currently accessing the document. This can be done using transaction codes like SM12 (to view locks) or SM21 (to check system logs).
  Contact the User: If possible, communicate with the user who is locking the document to see if they can complete their transaction or release the lock.
  Transaction Monitoring: Use transaction codes like SM66 (global work process overview) to monitor active sessions and identify any long-running transactions.
  System Administration: If the issue persists, it may require intervention from a system administrator to release locks or investigate further.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SM12 (to view and manage locks), SM21 (to view system logs), and SM66 (to monitor active sessions).
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to properly complete transactions to minimize the time a document is locked.
  System Performance: Regularly monitor system performance and user activity to identify patterns that may lead to frequent locking issues.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to document locking in your specific version of SAP.
  
  If the problem continues to occur frequently, it may be beneficial to review the business processes and system configurations to optimize how documents are accessed and modified.