How To Fix WD354 - Multistep task & is locked, but cannot be loaded

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WD - Workflow definition

• Message number: 354

• Message text: Multistep task & is locked, but cannot be loaded

What causes this issue?

The multistep task & is locked by another user. However, it does not
yet have a workflow definition, so this must be created.

System Response

However, the create mode cannot be started. The workflow cannot be
loaded.

How to fix this error?

Unlock the workflow and call the workflow 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 WD354 - Multistep task & is locked, but cannot be loaded ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation regarding the SAP error message WD354: "Multistep task & is locked, but cannot be loaded":
  
  Error Message:
  WD354: Multistep task & is locked, but cannot be loaded
  
  Cause:
  This error typically occurs in the context of SAP Web Dynpro applications, specifically when dealing with multistep tasks in workflow or dialog programming.
  
  The multistep task is locked by a user or process, meaning it is currently being processed or edited.
  However, when the system tries to load or access this locked multistep task, it fails.
  This can happen due to:
  
  Inconsistent lock entries in the lock table (ENQUEUE).
  The lock owner session has ended unexpectedly or crashed, leaving a stale lock.
  The task is locked in the database but the application cannot retrieve the task data.
  Issues with the task or workflow container data.
  Problems in the Web Dynpro component or the task processing logic.
  
  
  
  
  Typical Scenario:
  
  A user starts processing a multistep task.
  The system locks the task to prevent concurrent changes.
  Due to a system error, network issue, or abrupt termination, the lock remains but the task cannot be loaded again.
  When another attempt is made to access the task, the system throws WD354.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check and Remove Stale Locks:
  
  Use transaction SM12 to check for lock entries related to the multistep task.
  Identify and delete stale locks if they are no longer valid.
  Be cautious when deleting locks; ensure no active user/process is working on the task.
  
  
  
  Restart the Application or User Session:
  
  Sometimes, restarting the user session or the Web Dynpro application can clear temporary inconsistencies.
  
  
  
  Check Workflow and Task Status:
  
  Use transaction SWI1 or SWIA to check the status of the workflow and tasks.
  Verify if the task is in an inconsistent state.
  If necessary, restart or reset the workflow instance.
  
  
  
  Review Web Dynpro Component and Code:
  
  Check the Web Dynpro component handling the multistep task.
  Ensure proper handling of locks and task loading.
  Implement error handling to manage lock conflicts gracefully.
  
  
  
  Apply SAP Notes / Patches:
  
  Search for relevant SAP Notes addressing WD354 or multistep task locking issues.
  Apply recommended patches or corrections.
  
  
  
  Database Consistency Check:
  
  In rare cases, inconsistencies in the database tables related to tasks or workflow may cause this.
  Run consistency checks or consult SAP support.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction SM12: To monitor and delete lock entries.
  Transaction SWI1 / SWIA: To monitor workflow tasks and instances.
  SAP Notes: Search for notes related to WD354 or multistep task locking issues.
  Web Dynpro Lock Handling: Proper implementation of lock and unlock methods in Web Dynpro components.
  Workflow Task Management: Understanding how SAP workflow locks tasks during processing.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Details
  
  
  
  
  Cause
  Task is locked but cannot be loaded due to stale locks, session issues, or data errors.
  
  
  Solution
  Remove stale locks (SM12), check workflow status (SWI1), restart sessions, apply SAP Notes.
  
  
  Related Info
  SAP workflow and Web Dynpro locking mechanisms, transaction SM12, SWI1, SAP Notes.
  
  
  
  
  If the problem persists after these steps, it is advisable to raise a support ticket with SAP, providing logs and system details for further analysis.
  
  Let me know if you need help with specific steps or commands!