How To Fix STMWFLOW026 - External error: Object not locked

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: STMWFLOW - Messages in Context of Package STMWFLOW

• Message number: 026

• Message text: External error: Object not locked

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message STMWFLOW026 - External error: Object not locked ?

  The SAP error message STMWFLOW026, which states "External error: Object not locked," typically occurs in the context of workflow processing in SAP. This error indicates that the system is trying to access or modify an object that is currently locked by another process or user. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  
  Object Locking: The object (such as a document, transaction, or workflow instance) is locked by another user or process. This can happen if another user is currently editing the object or if a previous transaction did not release the lock properly.
  Database Locking: Sometimes, database-level locks can occur due to long-running transactions or deadlocks.
  Workflow Configuration Issues: Misconfigurations in the workflow settings or incorrect handling of workflow instances can lead to locking issues.
  System Performance: High system load or performance issues can lead to delays in releasing locks.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Lock Entries: Use transaction code SM12 to check for lock entries. You can identify which user or process is holding the lock on the object. If appropriate, you can delete the lock entry (be cautious with this approach, as it may lead to data inconsistency).
  
  
  Wait and Retry: If the lock is temporary (e.g., another user is currently working on the object), you may need to wait for the user to finish and then retry the operation.
  
  
  Review Workflow Configuration: Check the workflow configuration to ensure that it is set up correctly. Look for any issues in the workflow definition that might cause locking problems.
  
  
  Transaction Management: Ensure that transactions are being committed or rolled back properly. Long-running transactions should be optimized to avoid holding locks for extended periods.
  
  
  System Performance Monitoring: Monitor system performance to identify any bottlenecks that may be causing delays in lock release. This can involve checking for long-running processes or high resource usage.
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: Display and manage lock entries.
  SM21: Check system logs for any related errors or warnings.
  SWI1: Analyze workflow instances and their statuses.
  
  
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on workflow management and locking mechanisms.
  
  
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  
  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.