How To Fix MA288 - Parts of the planning hierarchy are locked by another user

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MA - Sales and Operations Planning

• Message number: 288

• Message text: Parts of the planning hierarchy are locked by another user

What causes this issue?

When calculating the proportional factors, the system reads the
relevant part of the planning hierarchy. It then tries to lock the
affected planning objects so that the structure underlying the
proportional calculation cannot be changed while the proportional
factors are being calculated.
In this case, the attempt to lock an element of the planning hierarchy
tree has failed.

System Response

The proportional factors cannot be calculated.

How to fix this error?

Wait for five minutes and then try again.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MA288 - Parts of the planning hierarchy are locked by another user ?

  The SAP error message MA288, which states "Parts of the planning hierarchy are locked by another user," typically occurs in the context of planning activities within SAP, particularly in modules like SAP APO (Advanced Planning and Optimization) or SAP S/4HANA.
  Cause:
  This error message indicates that a user is trying to access or modify a planning hierarchy (such as a planning area or a planning book) that is currently locked by another user. This locking mechanism is in place to prevent data inconsistencies that could arise from simultaneous modifications by multiple users.
  Solution:
  To resolve the MA288 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Identify the Locking User:
  
  Use transaction code SM12 to check for locks in the system. You can filter by the user ID or the object type to find out which user is holding the lock.
  
  
  
  Contact the Locking User:
  
  If possible, communicate with the user who has the lock to understand if they can release it. They may be done with their task and can log out or release the lock.
  
  
  
  Wait for Automatic Release:
  
  Locks are typically released automatically after a certain period of inactivity. If the locking user is not available, you may need to wait for the lock to be released automatically.
  
  
  
  Forcefully Release the Lock (if necessary):
  
  If the locking user is not available and the lock is preventing critical work, a system administrator can use transaction code SM12 to delete the lock entry. This should be done with caution, as it may lead to data inconsistencies if the locking user is still working on the data.
  
  
  
  Check for Background Jobs:
  
  Sometimes, background jobs may also hold locks. Check transaction SM37 to see if any background jobs are running that might be causing the lock.
  
  
  
  Review User Permissions:
  
  Ensure that users have the appropriate permissions to access and modify the planning hierarchy. Sometimes, permission issues can lead to unexpected locking behavior.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Locking Mechanism in SAP: SAP uses a locking mechanism to ensure data integrity. Understanding how locks work in SAP can help in troubleshooting similar issues in the future.
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: To view and manage locks.
  SM37: To check background jobs.
  SE11: To view table definitions, which can help in understanding the data structure related to planning hierarchies.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the MA288 error. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the MA288 error and continue with your planning activities in SAP.