How To Fix >W020 - Incorrect parallel processing: &1 does not match discrete distribution

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: >W -

• Message number: 020

• Message text: Incorrect parallel processing: &1 does not match discrete distribution

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 >W020 - Incorrect parallel processing: &1 does not match discrete distribution ?

  The SAP error message W020 Incorrect parallel processing: &1 does not match discrete distribution typically occurs in the context of parallel processing in SAP, particularly when dealing with background jobs or parallel execution of tasks. This error indicates that there is a mismatch in the expected distribution of tasks across parallel processes.
  Cause:
  
  
  Mismatch in Task Distribution: The error arises when the system expects a certain distribution of tasks across parallel processes, but the actual distribution does not match this expectation. This can happen if the number of tasks is not divisible by the number of parallel processes or if there is an inconsistency in how tasks are assigned.
  
  
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the SAP system that dictate how tasks are distributed among parallel processes. If these settings are incorrect or not aligned with the actual workload, it can lead to this error.
  
  
  Data Issues: Sometimes, the data being processed may not be suitable for parallel processing, leading to discrepancies in how tasks are distributed.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Task Distribution: Review the configuration of the parallel processing settings. Ensure that the number of tasks can be evenly distributed among the available parallel processes. If necessary, adjust the number of tasks or the number of parallel processes.
  
  
  Adjust Configuration: If the issue is related to configuration, you may need to adjust the settings in the relevant transaction codes (e.g., SM37 for job monitoring, or other relevant configuration transactions) to ensure that they align with the expected task distribution.
  
  
  Review Job Definitions: If this error occurs during a specific job, review the job definition and ensure that it is set up correctly for parallel processing. Check for any parameters that may affect how tasks are distributed.
  
  
  Data Validation: Ensure that the data being processed is appropriate for parallel execution. If certain data sets are not suitable for parallel processing, consider processing them sequentially.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to parallel processing for any specific guidelines or recommendations that may apply to your situation.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance. They may have additional insights or patches that can resolve the issue.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SM37 (Job Monitoring), SM50 (Process Overview), and SM66 (Global Process Overview) to monitor and manage background jobs and processes.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or fixes related to parallel processing and this specific error message.
  Performance Considerations: Understand the implications of parallel processing on system performance and resource utilization, as improper configurations can lead to performance degradation.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the W020 error in your SAP system.