How To Fix IW721 - Processing of notification has already started

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IW - Order Processing

• Message number: 721

• Message text: Processing of notification has already started

What causes this issue?

You want to create an order on the basis of a notification. This
notification is the basis of a
<DS:GLOS.497B2944482B6DBEE10000000A421391>job</>, for which processing
has already started.

System Response

Depending on your settings, the system either issues a warning or
prevents you from creating the order.

How to fix this error?

Note that the content of the task changes if an order is added. Any job
cards that have already been printed are incomplete.
&SYSTEMADMINISTRATION&
You can define the system behavior for message IW721 in Customizing for
<LS>Plant Maintenance and Customer Service</> under <LS>Maintenance and
Service Processing</> -> <LS>Maintenance and Service Orders</> ->
<LS>Message Control</>.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message IW721 - Processing of notification has already started ?

  The SAP error message IW721, which states "Processing of notification has already started," typically occurs when you attempt to change or delete a notification that is already being processed or has been locked by another user or transaction. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when a notification is being worked on in a different session or when a background job is processing the notification.
  Causes:
  
  Notification in Use: The notification is currently being edited or processed by another user or transaction.
  Background Processing: A background job is currently processing the notification.
  Locking Mechanism: SAP uses a locking mechanism to prevent multiple users from making changes to the same object simultaneously. If a lock exists, you will receive this error.
  Incomplete Transactions: If a previous transaction involving the notification was not completed properly, it may still be locked.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check for Locks:
  
  Use transaction code SM12 to check for locks on the notification. You can search for locks by entering the notification number and checking if any user has it locked.
  If you find a lock that is no longer needed, you can delete it (if you have the necessary authorizations).
  
  
  
  Wait for Processing to Complete:
  
  If another user is processing the notification, you may need to wait until they finish. You can communicate with the user to find out if they are still working on it.
  
  
  
  Check Background Jobs:
  
  Use transaction code SM37 to check if there are any background jobs that are processing the notification. If a job is running, you may need to wait for it to complete.
  
  
  
  Restart the Transaction:
  
  Sometimes, simply exiting the transaction and re-entering can resolve temporary issues.
  
  
  
  Consult with Your SAP Basis Team:
  
  If the issue persists, it may be necessary to consult with your SAP Basis team to investigate further. They can check for any system-level issues or locks that may not be visible to end users.
  
  
  
  Review User Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to modify or delete the notification. Lack of proper authorizations can sometimes lead to unexpected errors.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  IW21: Create Notification
  IW22: Change Notification
  IW23: Display Notification
  SM12: Display and Delete Locks
  SM37: Monitor Background Jobs
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues related to this error message. You can search for notes in the SAP Support Portal.
  
  
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to notifications and the handling of locks in the system for a better understanding of how to manage these situations.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the IW721 error and continue working with the notification in SAP.