How To Fix POWL016 - Query '&' is already open in another session

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: POWL - Internal Messages used in generic personal object work list

• Message number: 016

• Message text: Query '&' is already open in another session

What causes this issue?

This error can be caused by:
Another open window that contains this worklist query
Previous abnormal program termination

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?

To correct this error, you can perform one of the following activities:
Close the other window and reload the worklist.
Log off and log on again.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message POWL016 - Query '&' is already open in another session ?

  The SAP error message POWL016 indicates that a particular query (identified by the query name represented by '&') is already open in another session. This typically occurs in the context of the SAP POWL (Personal Object Worklist) framework, which allows users to manage and interact with their work items.
  Cause:
  
  Multiple Sessions: The most common cause of this error is that the user has opened the same query in multiple sessions or tabs. SAP restricts the opening of the same query to prevent conflicts and ensure data integrity.
  Session Timeout: If a session has timed out or is still active in the background, it may lead to this error when trying to open the same query again.
  User Locking: In some cases, the query might be locked by another user or session, preventing access.
  
  Solution:
  
  Close Other Sessions: Check if you have multiple sessions or tabs open with the same query. Close any additional sessions that are using the same query.
  Log Out and Log In: If you are unsure about the open sessions, logging out of SAP and logging back in can help reset the session state.
  Use Different Queries: If you need to work with similar data, consider creating a copy of the query or using a different query that serves your purpose.
  Check for Locks: If you suspect that another user has locked the query, you may need to contact your SAP administrator to check for locks and resolve them.
  Session Management: Be mindful of how many sessions you open in SAP. Try to limit the number of concurrent sessions to avoid such conflicts.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to POWL and session management.
  User Documentation: Refer to the SAP Help Portal for documentation on POWL and best practices for managing queries.
  System Configuration: Sometimes, system settings related to session management can be adjusted by an SAP Basis administrator to allow more flexibility in handling queries.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team for further assistance.