How To Fix CNV_PE281 - Worklist items cannot be deleted, worklist is locked by other process

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CNV_PE - General messages for posting engine

• Message number: 281

• Message text: Worklist items cannot be deleted, worklist is locked by other process

What causes this issue?

Worklist items cannot be deleted because worklist is locked by another
process.
Area ID: &V1&

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?

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CNV_PE281 - Worklist items cannot be deleted, worklist is locked by other process ?

  The SAP error message CNV_PE281 indicates that a worklist item cannot be deleted because the worklist is currently locked by another process. This typically occurs in the context of data migration or conversion processes, where multiple users or processes may be trying to access or modify the same worklist simultaneously.
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Access: Another user or process is currently accessing the worklist, which prevents any modifications, including deletions.
  Long-Running Transactions: A transaction that is taking a long time to complete may hold a lock on the worklist.
  System Locking Mechanism: SAP uses locking mechanisms to ensure data integrity, and if a worklist is locked, it cannot be modified until the lock is released.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Identify the Locking Process:
  
  Use transaction SM12 to check for locks in the system. You can filter by the user or the object type to find out which process is holding the lock.
  If you identify a user or process that is holding the lock, you may need to communicate with them to understand why the lock is in place.
  
  
  
  Wait for the Lock to be Released:
  
  If the locking process is legitimate and necessary, you may need to wait until it completes its operation and releases the lock.
  
  
  
  Terminate the Lock (if necessary):
  
  If you determine that the lock is no longer needed (e.g., the user has left the session), you can delete the lock entry in SM12. However, this should be done with caution, as it may lead to data inconsistency if the other process is still running.
  
  
  
  Check for Background Jobs:
  
  Sometimes, background jobs may hold locks. Use transaction SM37 to check for any running jobs that might be affecting the worklist.
  
  
  
  Review System Logs:
  
  Check the system logs (transaction SM21) for any errors or warnings that might provide additional context about the locking issue.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: Display and manage locks.
  SM37: Monitor background jobs.
  SM21: System log analysis.
  
  
  
  Best Practices:
  
  Avoid concurrent modifications to the same worklist by coordinating with team members.
  Implement proper error handling in your data migration processes to manage locks effectively.
  
  
  
  Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP Notes and documentation related to the specific data migration or conversion tool you are using, as there may be additional guidelines or troubleshooting steps provided by SAP.
  
  
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further assistance.