How To Fix GLE_ECS_AL033 - ECS items cannot be deleted, workflow is active

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GLE_ECS_AL -

• Message number: 033

• Message text: ECS items cannot be deleted, workflow is active

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GLE_ECS_AL033 - ECS items cannot be deleted, workflow is active ?

  The SAP error message GLE_ECS_AL033 indicates that ECS (Electronic Cash Settlement) items cannot be deleted because there is an active workflow associated with them. This error typically arises in the context of managing cash settlement processes in SAP, particularly when trying to delete or modify ECS items that are currently being processed or have pending workflows.
  Cause:
  
  Active Workflow: The primary cause of this error is that there is an active workflow linked to the ECS items you are trying to delete. Workflows are often used to manage approvals and processes, and if a workflow is active, it prevents changes to the associated items to maintain data integrity.
  Pending Approvals: If the ECS items are part of a process that requires approvals, the system will not allow deletion until all approvals are completed or the workflow is terminated.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Workflow Status:
  
  Use transaction codes like SWI1 (Work Item Selection) or SWI2_FREQ (Work Item Overview) to check the status of the workflow associated with the ECS items.
  Identify if there are any pending work items or approvals.
  
  
  
  Complete or Terminate Workflow:
  
  If the workflow is still active and you have the necessary permissions, you can either complete the workflow or terminate it if it is no longer needed.
  To terminate a workflow, you can use transaction SWI1 to find the relevant work item and then choose to delete or terminate it.
  
  
  
  Consult with Workflow Administrator:
  
  If you do not have the necessary permissions to manage workflows, consult with your SAP workflow administrator or the person responsible for managing workflows in your organization. They can assist in resolving the issue.
  
  
  
  Review ECS Configuration:
  
  Ensure that the ECS configuration is set up correctly and that there are no issues with the workflow design that could be causing unnecessary locks on ECS items.
  
  
  
  Retry Deletion:
  
  Once the workflow is completed or terminated, attempt to delete the ECS items again.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SWI1, SWI2, and SWI6 for managing workflows.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to ECS and workflows that might provide additional insights or solutions.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation on ECS and workflows to understand how they interact and the best practices for managing them.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and successfully delete the ECS items if needed.