How To Fix WD074 - Workflow & being edited outside the system -> Display only

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WD - Workflow definition

• Message number: 074

• Message text: Workflow & being edited outside the system -> Display only

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WD074 - Workflow & being edited outside the system -> Display only ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation regarding the SAP error message:
  
  SAP Error Message:
  WD074 - Workflow & being edited outside the system -> Display only
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs when a workflow object (such as a workflow definition, task, or container element) is currently being edited or locked outside the SAP system, or the system detects that the workflow is in a state that prevents editing. This typically happens when:
  
  The workflow is locked by another user or process.
  The workflow is being edited in an external tool or environment.
  There is a lock entry in the system that prevents changes.
  The workflow object is in a status that only allows display (read-only) mode.
  
  
  Explanation:
  
  SAP workflow objects are locked during editing to prevent simultaneous changes that could cause inconsistencies.
  If the system detects that the workflow is locked externally or by another user, it restricts editing and allows only display.
  This is a safeguard to maintain data integrity.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Lock Entries:
  
  Use transaction SM12 to check for lock entries related to the workflow object.
  Identify if the workflow is locked by another user or process.
  If the lock is stale (e.g., user has logged off without releasing the lock), you may delete the lock entry carefully.
  
  
  
  Check Workflow Status:
  
  Verify the status of the workflow in transaction SWI1 or SWDD.
  Ensure the workflow is not in a state that restricts editing.
  
  
  
  Ensure No External Editing:
  
  Confirm that no external tools or interfaces are editing the workflow.
  If external editing is necessary, coordinate to avoid conflicts.
  
  
  
  User Coordination:
  
  Communicate with other users who might be editing the workflow.
  Wait until the workflow is unlocked.
  
  
  
  Restart Workflow Builder:
  
  Sometimes, restarting the Workflow Builder (transaction SWDD) can help refresh the lock status.
  
  
  
  System Restart (if applicable):
  
  In rare cases, if locks are not released due to system issues, a system restart might be necessary (usually done by BASIS team).
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWDD - Workflow Builder (to edit workflows)
  SM12 - Lock Entries (to check and delete locks)
  SWI1 - Workflow Log (to check workflow status and logs)
  SWU3 - Workflow Customizing (to check workflow configuration)
  
  
  
  Notes and Documentation:
  
  SAP Notes related to workflow locking issues can be searched on the SAP Support Portal.
  Always ensure proper backup and authorization before deleting lock entries.
  
  
  
  Best Practices:
  
  Avoid simultaneous editing of workflows by multiple users.
  Regularly monitor workflow locks and clean up stale locks.
  Use transport requests properly when moving workflows between systems.
  
  
  
  
  If you need further assistance or specific steps for your SAP version, please provide additional details such as the workflow object type or system environment.