How To Fix ET013 - Unable to lock development object (subobjects are locked)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ET - Translation and maintenance language

• Message number: 013

• Message text: Unable to lock development object (subobjects are locked)

What causes this issue?

When you change the original language, the entire development project
will be locked. If locks (short-term locks or transport locks) are set
for subobjects, the function "Change Original Language" cannot be
executed.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ET013 - Unable to lock development object (subobjects are locked) ?

  The SAP error message ET013 "Unable to lock development object (subobjects are locked)" typically occurs when you are trying to modify or transport a development object (like a program, function module, or class) that is currently locked by another user or process. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when multiple developers are working on the same object or when a transport request is being processed.
  Causes:
  
  Concurrent Access: Another user or process is currently editing or has locked the object you are trying to access.
  Transport Request: The object is part of a transport request that is currently being processed or has not been released.
  Development Lock: The object is locked due to a previous session that did not release the lock properly.
  System Issues: Sometimes, system inconsistencies or errors can lead to locks not being released.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Lock Entries:
  
  Use transaction code SM12 to check for lock entries. You can filter by the object name or user to see if there are any active locks.
  If you find a lock that is no longer needed, you can delete it (if you have the necessary authorizations).
  
  
  
  Contact the User:
  
  If another user is locking the object, communicate with them to see if they can release the lock or if they are done with their changes.
  
  
  
  Release Transport Requests:
  
  If the object is part of a transport request, ensure that the transport is released properly. You can check this in transaction SE09 or SE10.
  
  
  
  Wait and Retry:
  
  Sometimes, simply waiting for a few moments and then retrying the operation can resolve the issue, especially if the lock is temporary.
  
  
  
  Check for System Issues:
  
  If you suspect a system issue, you may need to contact your SAP Basis team to investigate further. They can check for any inconsistencies in the system that might be causing the lock.
  
  
  
  Use Transaction SE03:
  
  You can also use transaction SE03 (Transport Organizer Tools) to analyze transport-related issues and see if there are any inconsistencies.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Lock Management: Understanding how SAP handles locks can help in troubleshooting. Locks are typically managed at the database level, and SAP uses a locking mechanism to prevent data inconsistencies.
  User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to unlock objects or to view lock entries.
  Development Guidelines: Establishing guidelines for development work can help minimize conflicts, such as assigning specific objects to specific developers or using version control systems.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to escalate the issue to your SAP support team for further investigation.