How To Fix WER427 - Copy not allowed, element &1 is not locked

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WER - Messages for the package WER

• Message number: 427

• Message text: Copy not allowed, element &1 is not locked

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WER427 - Copy not allowed, element &1 is not locked ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WER427 - Copy not allowed, element &1 is not locked
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs when you attempt to copy or modify an object (such as a work breakdown structure element, network activity, or other project system elements) that is not currently locked by your user session. In SAP Project System (PS) or related modules, certain objects must be locked before changes can be made to ensure data consistency and prevent conflicts from simultaneous edits by multiple users.
  The message indicates that the system expects the element (identified by &1) to be locked by your user session before allowing the copy operation, but it is not locked.
  
  Explanation:
  
  Locking is a mechanism to prevent concurrent changes.
  If the element is not locked, the system assumes another user might be editing it or it is not reserved for editing.
  Copy operations often require the source element to be locked to ensure the data integrity during the copy process.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Lock the Element:
  
  Before performing the copy, explicitly lock the element.
  In transaction or program where you perform the copy, ensure you have locked the element first.
  For example, in Project System, use the appropriate function or menu option to lock the WBS element or network.
  
  
  
  Check User Locks:
  
  Use transaction SM12 to check if the element is locked by another user.
  If locked by another user, coordinate with them to release the lock or wait until they finish.
  
  
  
  Release and Re-lock:
  
  If the element is locked by your session but the system does not recognize it, try releasing the lock and locking it again.
  
  
  
  Check Authorization:
  
  Ensure you have the necessary authorizations to lock and modify the element.
  
  
  
  Technical Debugging (if needed):
  
  If the problem persists, check for custom code or enhancements that might interfere with the locking mechanism.
  Review OSS notes related to WER427 for any known bugs or patches.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction SM12: Display and manage lock entries.
  Project System (PS) Locking: PS elements like WBS, networks, and activities require locking before editing.
  SAP Notes: Search SAP Support Portal for notes related to message WER427.
  Authorization Objects: Check if user has authorization for object PLOG (Project System) or related objects for locking.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  Cause: Attempt to copy an element that is not locked by your user session.
  Solution: Lock the element before copying; check and manage locks via SM12; ensure proper authorizations.
  Related: Lock management in SAP, Project System element editing, transaction SM12.
  
  
  If you provide the exact context (transaction, object type), I can give more specific instructions.