How To Fix SKWF_FOLDER021 - Error while locking subnodes

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SKWF_FOLDER - Directory Messages

• Message number: 021

• Message text: Error while locking subnodes

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SKWF_FOLDER021 - Error while locking subnodes ?

  The SAP error message SKWF_FOLDER021, which indicates "Error while locking subnodes," typically occurs in the context of workflow management in SAP. This error can arise due to various reasons, including issues with locking mechanisms, database inconsistencies, or problems with the workflow configuration.
  Causes:
  
  Locking Issues: The error often occurs when the system is unable to acquire a lock on the required subnodes due to another process holding the lock.
  Database Issues: There may be inconsistencies or issues in the database that prevent the locking mechanism from functioning correctly.
  Workflow Configuration: Incorrect or incomplete configuration of the workflow can lead to this error.
  User Authorizations: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to lock the subnodes.
  System Performance: High system load or performance issues can also lead to locking problems.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Locks: Use transaction code SM12 to check for existing locks on the relevant objects. If you find locks that are no longer needed, you can delete them (if you have the necessary authorizations).
  Review Workflow Configuration: Ensure that the workflow is correctly configured. Check for any missing or incorrect settings that could lead to locking issues.
  Database Consistency Check: Perform a consistency check on the database to identify and resolve any inconsistencies that may be causing the locking issue.
  User Authorizations: Verify that the user executing the workflow has the necessary authorizations to perform the locking operation.
  System Performance Monitoring: Monitor system performance and check for any bottlenecks that may be affecting the locking mechanism. Consider optimizing the system if necessary.
  Restart Workflow: If the issue persists, consider restarting the workflow or the relevant processes to clear any temporary issues.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SWI1 (Work Item Selection), SWI2_FREQ (Work Item Selection by Frequency), and SWI2_DURA (Work Item Selection by Duration) for monitoring and managing workflows.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further investigation.