How To Fix CB016 - The selected process message (cat. &) is blocked by another user

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CB - PP-PI-PMA: Dialog Messages for Process Management

• Message number: 016

• Message text: The selected process message (cat. &) is blocked by another user

What causes this issue?

You cannot maintain, send or delete the selected process
message (category &V1&) as it is currently processed by another user.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Carry out the desired function at a later time.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CB016 - The selected process message (cat. &) is blocked by another user ?

  The SAP error message CB016 indicates that a selected process message (category &) is blocked by another user. This typically occurs in the context of process order management or production planning, where multiple users may be trying to access or modify the same process message simultaneously.
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Access: Another user is currently processing or editing the same process message, which locks it for other users.
  Lock Entries: SAP uses lock entries to prevent data inconsistencies. If a user has an active session on a process message, it will be locked for others.
  Long Running Transactions: If a user has a long-running transaction, it may hold the lock for an extended period, causing other users to encounter this error.
  System Configuration: Certain configurations in the system may lead to more frequent locking issues, especially in high-traffic environments.
  
  Solution:
  
  Wait and Retry: The simplest solution is to wait for the other user to finish their transaction and then try again.
  Identify the Lock: Use transaction code SM12 to check for lock entries. You can see which user is holding the lock and the object that is locked.
  Contact the User: If you identify the user holding the lock, you can contact them to see if they can release the lock or finish their transaction.
  Release the Lock: If necessary and if you have the appropriate authorizations, you can manually delete the lock entry in transaction SM12. However, this should be done with caution, as it may lead to data inconsistencies.
  Review Process: If this issue occurs frequently, review the process flow and user access patterns to minimize concurrent access to the same process messages.
  System Configuration: Consult with your SAP Basis team to review system configurations that may be contributing to locking issues.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: To view and manage lock entries.
  SM21: To check system logs for any related issues.
  SM37: To monitor background jobs that may be causing locks.
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for more details on process messages and locking mechanisms.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to manage process messages effectively to reduce the likelihood of locking issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the CB016 error and minimize its occurrence in the future.