How To Fix COM_DML_ENGINE188 - An inactive state (user &) is already being processed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: COM_DML_ENGINE - MDF Processing Layer

• Message number: 188

• Message text: An inactive state (user &) is already being processed

What causes this issue?

In a work process, only a single inactive state can be processed for an
object (more precisely: a change state of an object); that is, the
buffered state and the active state cannot be processed at the same
time, and the buffered states of multiple users cannot be processed at
the same time.
You can read, however, without restrictions. If changes are made to the
active state and the inactive state of a user is read, the buffered data
refers to the new active state.

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

System Response

How to fix this error?

Process each user in a separate work process or end the transaction
before the object is processed under another user.

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 COM_DML_ENGINE188 - An inactive state (user &) is already being processed ?

  The SAP error message COM_DML_ENGINE188 indicates that there is an attempt to process a user or a state that is already being processed in the system. This typically occurs in scenarios where multiple processes or transactions are trying to access or modify the same data simultaneously, leading to a conflict.
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Processing: The error often arises when two or more processes are trying to access or modify the same user state at the same time.
  Locking Mechanism: SAP uses a locking mechanism to prevent data inconsistencies. If one process has locked a user state, another process trying to access it will encounter this error.
  Long-Running Transactions: If a transaction takes too long to complete, it may lead to other transactions being blocked, resulting in this error.
  System Configuration Issues: Misconfigurations in the system or application logic can also lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check for Active Processes: Identify if there are any active processes that are currently using the same user state. You can use transaction codes like SM50 or SM66 to monitor active processes.
  Wait and Retry: If the error is due to concurrent processing, waiting for the other process to complete and then retrying the operation may resolve the issue.
  Review Lock Entries: Use transaction code SM12 to check for lock entries related to the user state. If you find any unnecessary locks, you may need to delete them (with caution).
  Optimize Transactions: If long-running transactions are causing the issue, consider optimizing the code or breaking down the transaction into smaller parts to reduce processing time.
  Error Handling in Code: If you are developing custom code, ensure that proper error handling and locking mechanisms are in place to avoid conflicts.
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SM50 (Process Overview), SM66 (Global Process Overview), and SM12 (Display and Delete Locks) for monitoring and troubleshooting.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights and solutions from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to the specific module or functionality you are working with, as it may provide additional context or troubleshooting steps.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further investigation.