How To Fix QM199 - Document flow could not be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: QM - Messages for quality notifications

• Message number: 199

• Message text: Document flow could not be deleted

What causes this issue?

A link in the central document flow could not be deleted.
Note
This means that the system may display links between documents that no
longer exist.

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?

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 QM199 - Document flow could not be deleted ?

  The SAP error message QM199, which states "Document flow could not be deleted," typically occurs in the context of Quality Management (QM) when there is an attempt to delete a document flow related to quality notifications, inspection lots, or other QM-related documents. This error can arise due to various reasons, and understanding the cause is essential for finding a solution.
  Causes of QM199 Error
  
  
  Document Status: The document you are trying to delete may be in a status that does not allow deletion. For example, if the document is already processed or has been referenced in other documents, it cannot be deleted.
  
  
  Dependencies: There may be other documents or processes that depend on the document you are trying to delete. If there are linked documents (like inspection lots or notifications), the system will prevent deletion to maintain data integrity.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to delete the document flow. This can be due to role restrictions or missing permissions in the user's profile.
  
  
  System Configuration: Certain configurations in the SAP system may restrict the deletion of document flows. This could be due to custom settings or business rules defined in the system.
  
  
  Solutions to QM199 Error
  
  
  Check Document Status: Verify the status of the document you are trying to delete. If it is in a completed or locked state, you may need to change its status or unlock it before attempting deletion.
  
  
  Review Dependencies: Investigate if there are any dependent documents or processes. You can use transaction codes like IW38 (for work orders) or QM03 (for quality notifications) to check for linked documents. If dependencies exist, you may need to delete or modify those first.
  
  
  Authorization Check: Ensure that the user attempting the deletion has the necessary authorizations. You can check this in transaction SU53 after the error occurs to see if there are any authorization issues.
  
  
  Consult Configuration: If the issue persists, consult with your SAP Basis or configuration team to review any settings that might be preventing the deletion. They can check for any custom validations or configurations that may be in place.
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes: Sometimes, using specific transaction codes can help in managing document flows. For example, using QM02 to change the quality notification or QA32 for inspection lots may provide more options for handling the document.
  
  
  SAP Notes and Support: If the problem continues, check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error. You can search the SAP Support Portal for updates or patches that may resolve the issue.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes in QM, such as QM01 (Create Quality Notification), QM02 (Change Quality Notification), and QA32 (Display Inspection Lot).
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to Quality Management for best practices on document handling and deletion.
  User Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, providing insights or solutions from other users' experiences.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the QM199 error and take appropriate actions to resolve it.