How To Fix GR686 - Parallel report & of library & is already being edited

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GR - Report Writer

• Message number: 686

• Message text: Parallel report & of library & is already being edited

What causes this issue?

This report group contains a parallel report that is currently being
processed by another user or by you yourself.

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?

Check who is processing the parallel report, and wait until processing
is finished.
Using the transaction <DS:TRAN.SM12> 'Process lock entry' </> you can
find out who is processing the parallel report and delete the
respective lock entry. However, you should only do this in an
emergency.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GR686 - Parallel report & of library & is already being edited ?

  The SAP error message GR686 indicates that a parallel report or library is currently being edited by another user or process. This can occur in various scenarios, such as when multiple users attempt to access or modify the same report or library simultaneously.
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Access: Another user is currently editing the same report or library.
  Locking Mechanism: SAP uses a locking mechanism to prevent data inconsistencies. When one user is editing, the system locks the object for others.
  Long-Running Processes: A long-running report or transaction may be holding the lock longer than expected.
  System Configuration: Certain configurations may lead to more frequent locking issues, especially in environments with high user concurrency.
  
  Solution:
  
  Wait and Retry: If the report is being edited by another user, wait for them to finish and then try again.
  Check Lock Entries: Use transaction code SM12 to check for lock entries. You can see which user is holding the lock and, if necessary, contact them to coordinate.
  Release Locks: If you have the necessary authorizations, you can manually delete the lock entry in SM12. However, this should be done with caution to avoid data inconsistencies.
  Review User Activity: If this is a recurring issue, review user activity and consider implementing guidelines for editing shared reports or libraries.
  Optimize Reports: If long-running processes are common, consider optimizing the reports or libraries to reduce the time they hold locks.
  System Configuration: Consult with your SAP Basis team to review system configurations that may affect locking behavior.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  SM12: To view and manage lock entries.
  SM21: To check system logs for any related issues.
  ST22: To check for dumps that might indicate underlying issues.
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help Portal for detailed documentation on locking mechanisms and best practices for report management.
  User Training: Provide training for users on how to manage concurrent access to shared resources effectively.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or raise a ticket with SAP support for further assistance.