How To Fix WF020 - Process type is locked by another agent/session

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WF - Workflow: messages

• Message number: 020

• Message text: Process type is locked by another agent/session

What causes this issue?

You attempted to access a process type which is being edited.

System Response

The lock request was rejected.

How to fix this error?

Inform the user &V1& who has locked the process type or try again
later.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WF020 - Process type is locked by another agent/session ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation of the SAP error message:
  
  SAP Error Message:
  WF020 Process type is locked by another agent/session
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs in SAP Workflow when a workflow process instance is locked by another user or session. SAP workflow uses locking mechanisms to ensure data consistency and prevent simultaneous changes to the same workflow instance by multiple agents or sessions.
  
  Locking Mechanism: When a workflow agent (user or system) is working on a workflow task or process, the system locks the process type or instance to prevent concurrent modifications.
  Another Agent/Session: The error indicates that the workflow process you are trying to access or modify is currently locked by another user or session, meaning someone else is working on it or the lock was not released properly.
  Possible reasons for the lock:
  
  Another user is currently processing the workflow task.
  A previous session crashed or was terminated abnormally, leaving the lock in place.
  A background job or workflow container is holding the lock.
  Deadlocks or long-running processes causing the lock to persist.
  
  
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can try the following steps:
  
  
  Wait and Retry:
  
  If another user is working on the workflow, wait until they finish and the lock is released.
  Sometimes locks are temporary and will be released automatically.
  
  
  
  Check Locked Workflow Instances:
  
  Use transaction SWI1 (Work Item Selection) or SWI2_FREQ to identify the workflow instances and their status.
  Check if the workflow instance is locked and by whom.
  
  
  
  Unlock the Workflow Instance:
  
  Use transaction SWI2_LOCK to display locked workflow objects.
  Identify the locked process type or instance.
  If you have authorization, you can unlock the workflow instance manually.
  Alternatively, use report RSWLOCKRELEASE to release locks on workflow objects.
  
  
  
  Check for Stuck or Abnormal Sessions:
  
  Identify if any user sessions or background jobs are holding the lock.
  Use transaction SM12 to check for lock entries related to workflow objects.
  If a session is stuck, you may need to terminate it or ask the user to log off.
  
  
  
  Restart Workflow Runtime (if necessary):
  
  In rare cases, restarting the workflow runtime or the SAP system may be required to clear persistent locks.
  
  
  
  Check for Workflow Errors:
  
  Review workflow logs in SWI1 or SWI2_DIAG to identify if there are errors causing the lock to persist.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SWI1 – Work Item Selection
  SWI2_FREQ – Workflow Runtime Analysis
  SWI2_LOCK – Display Locked Workflow Objects
  SM12 – Display and Delete Lock Entries
  SWI6 – Workflow Log
  
  
  Reports:
  
  RSWLOCKRELEASE – Release Workflow Locks
  
  
  Notes and Documentation:
  
  SAP Notes related to workflow locking issues can be found on the SAP Support Portal.
  Check for OSS Notes if the problem persists or is frequent.
  
  
  
  
  Summary:
  The error "WF020 Process type is locked by another agent/session" means the workflow process is currently locked by another user or session. The solution involves identifying the lock owner, waiting or manually releasing the lock, and ensuring no stuck sessions or jobs are holding the lock. Use SAP workflow and lock management transactions to diagnose and resolve the issue.
  
  If you need help with specific steps or commands, feel free to ask!