How To Fix /SCWM/PS_BASICS139 - Work step &1 cannot be deleted because it is used by &2 element groups

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SCWM/PS_BASICS -

• Message number: 139

• Message text: Work step &1 cannot be deleted because it is used by &2 element groups

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SCWM/PS_BASICS139 - Work step &1 cannot be deleted because it is used by &2 element groups ?

  The SAP error message /SCWM/PS_BASICS139 indicates that a specific work step (denoted as &1) cannot be deleted because it is currently being utilized by one or more element groups (denoted as &2). This typically occurs in the context of SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM) when trying to modify or delete a work step that is still linked to active processes or configurations.
  Cause:
  
  Active Dependencies: The work step you are trying to delete is still referenced by one or more element groups. This means that there are processes or configurations that rely on this work step.
  Configuration Issues: The work step may be part of a larger configuration that has not been fully deactivated or removed.
  Data Integrity: SAP enforces data integrity rules to prevent the deletion of elements that are still in use, which is a common practice to avoid inconsistencies in the system.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Identify Dependencies: 
  
  Use transaction codes like /SCWM/PS or relevant reports to identify which element groups are using the work step. This will help you understand the dependencies.
  
  
  
  Remove Dependencies:
  
  If the work step is part of a process, you may need to first remove or deactivate the element groups that are using it. This could involve changing the configuration or reassigning tasks.
  
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Review the configuration settings in the EWM system to ensure that the work step is not linked to any active processes. You may need to consult with your SAP EWM configuration team for assistance.
  
  
  
  Delete Element Groups:
  
  If it is appropriate and you have the necessary authorizations, you can delete or modify the element groups that are using the work step. Ensure that this action does not disrupt other processes.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on managing work steps and element groups in EWM.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making changes, test the system to ensure that the deletion of the work step does not affect other functionalities.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional insights or solutions related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes related to EWM configuration and monitoring, such as /SCWM/PS for process steps.
  User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to work steps and element groups in the system.
  
  If you continue to face issues, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP EWM expert for further assistance.