How To Fix SRMKC021 - Unable to edit catalog; catalog is locked by user &

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SRMKC - Message Class Keyword Catalog

• Message number: 021

• Message text: Unable to edit catalog; catalog is locked by user &

What causes this issue?

The keyword catalog &v2& is already being edited by user &V1&.

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?

Wait until user &v1& has finished editing the catalog, or contact the
user.

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 SRMKC021 - Unable to edit catalog; catalog is locked by user & ?

  The SAP error message SRMKC021 indicates that a catalog is locked by a user, preventing any edits or modifications to that catalog. This typically occurs in the context of SAP's Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) or similar modules where catalogs are used for procurement processes.
  Cause:
  
  User Lock: The catalog is currently being edited or accessed by another user, which locks it for other users to prevent conflicting changes.
  Session Timeout: A user may have left a session open, causing the catalog to remain locked even after they have stopped actively working on it.
  System Error: Occasionally, system errors or crashes can lead to a catalog being improperly locked.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Identify the Locking User: 
  
  Use transaction code SM12 to check for locked entries. You can filter by the user ID to see if the catalog is locked by a specific user.
  If you find the locking user, you can contact them to see if they can release the lock.
  
  
  
  Release the Lock:
  
  If the user is unavailable or the lock is no longer needed, an administrator can manually release the lock using transaction code SM12. 
  Be cautious when releasing locks, as this can lead to data inconsistencies if the user is still working on the catalog.
  
  
  
  Check for Background Jobs: 
  
  Sometimes, background jobs may also lock catalogs. Check if there are any running jobs that might be causing the lock.
  
  
  
  Wait and Retry: 
  
  If the lock is temporary, waiting for a few moments and then retrying the operation may resolve the issue.
  
  
  
  System Restart: 
  
  In rare cases, a system restart may be necessary to clear any persistent locks that are not being released properly.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SM12 (to view and manage locks) and SM21 (to check system logs for errors).
  User Communication: Establish a protocol for users to communicate when they are done editing catalogs to avoid unnecessary locks.
  Documentation: Ensure that users are trained on how to properly exit sessions and release locks when they are finished working.
  
  If the problem persists after trying these solutions, it may be necessary to consult with your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further assistance.