How To Fix W3_TOOL034 - Object is being edited outside the SAP System

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: W3_TOOL - ITS: Maintenance Messages

• Message number: 034

• Message text: Object is being edited outside the SAP System

What causes this issue?

The object you want to change was checked out for editing from the SAP
System using an external tool. Changes that you make to this object
while it is checked out will be overwritten when the object is checked
in again.

System Response

You are not authorized to edit an object which is currently checked out.

How to fix this error?

Finish working on the object with the external tool and check the object
in again.

Procedure for System Administrators

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W3_TOOL034 - Object is being edited outside the SAP System ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  W3_TOOL034: Object is being edited outside the SAP System
  
  Cause:
  This error message typically occurs when an object (such as a development object, e.g., a program, function module, or other repository object) is currently being edited or locked outside the SAP system environment. This usually happens when:
  
  The object is being edited directly in the file system or an external tool without proper synchronization with the SAP system.
  The object is locked by another user or process in the SAP system, but the system detects changes or editing attempts outside the SAP environment.
  There is a mismatch or inconsistency between the SAP system's lock entries and the actual editing status of the object.
  Sometimes, this can happen if the object was checked out or exported and is being modified externally without proper check-in or transport back into SAP.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Lock Entries:
  
  Use transaction SM12 to check if the object is locked by another user.
  If the lock is stale or no longer valid, you may need to delete the lock entry (with caution and proper authorization).
  
  
  
  Ensure Proper Editing Procedure:
  
  Always edit SAP repository objects within the SAP system using the appropriate transactions (e.g., SE80, SE38).
  Avoid editing SAP objects directly in the file system or external editors unless using SAP-approved tools and procedures (like SAP NetWeaver Developer Studio or ABAP Development Tools in Eclipse).
  
  
  
  Synchronize Changes:
  
  If you have exported the object for external editing, ensure you properly import or check-in the changes back into SAP.
  Use transport requests or the appropriate import mechanisms to update the SAP system.
  
  
  
  Check for External Tools:
  
  If you are using external tools (e.g., ABAP in Eclipse, third-party editors), ensure they are properly connected and synchronized with the SAP system.
  Restart the external tool or SAP GUI session if necessary.
  
  
  
  Consult Basis Team:
  
  If the problem persists, consult your SAP Basis team to check for system inconsistencies or to perform system checks.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction SM12: Manage lock entries.
  Transaction SE80 / SE38: Standard ABAP development environment.
  ABAP Development Tools (ADT): Eclipse-based development environment for ABAP.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Support Portal for any notes related to W3_TOOL034 or object locking issues.
  Transport Management: Ensure proper transport and version control of development objects.
  
  
  Summary:
  The error W3_TOOL034 indicates that an object is being edited outside the SAP system or there is a lock conflict. The recommended approach is to verify and clear locks, ensure editing is done within SAP-approved environments, and synchronize any external changes properly back into SAP.