How To Fix WL873 - Work item &: Background job & cannot be changed (error &)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WL - Workflow: run-time messages

• Message number: 873

• Message text: Work item &: Background job & cannot be changed (error &)

What causes this issue?

An error occurred when changing the specified background job used for
the deadline monitoring of the work item.

System Response

The action was compensated by deleting the background job and then
rescheduling it.

How to fix this error?

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

INCLUDE NA_WF-ADMINISTRATOR OBJECT DOKU ID TX
Check whether the specified compensation measures were carried out
correctly. If they were not, there is a risk that the system has an
inconsistent state. The scheduled start of the specified background job
must be compared with the next deadline for all work items in table
SWWDHMIN. If necessary, the scheduled background job must be deleted by
hand and rescheduled by calling report RSWWDHEX.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WL873 - Work item &: Background job & cannot be changed (error &) ?

  The SAP error message WL873 indicates that a work item or background job cannot be changed due to a specific error. This error typically arises in the context of workflow management or background job processing in SAP systems. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  
  Job Status: The background job may be in a status that does not allow changes (e.g., it might be finished, canceled, or in a state that locks it for modifications).
  Authorization Issues: The user attempting to make changes may not have the necessary authorizations to modify the work item or background job.
  System Lock: There may be a system lock on the work item or job, preventing changes from being made.
  Technical Errors: There could be underlying technical issues, such as database locks or inconsistencies in the workflow or job management tables.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Job Status: Verify the status of the background job in transaction SM37 (for background jobs) or SWI1 (for workflow items). If the job is finished or canceled, you may need to create a new job or work item instead of modifying the existing one.
  Review Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to modify the work item or job. This can be checked in transaction SU53 (to analyze authorization issues).
  Release Locks: If there are locks on the work item or job, you may need to wait for them to be released or contact your SAP Basis team to investigate and resolve any locks.
  Error Analysis: Check the detailed error log for more information about the specific error indicated by the message (the “error &” part of the message). This may provide additional context for troubleshooting.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP Notes or documentation related to the specific error code or message for more detailed guidance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM37: Monitor background jobs.
  SWI1: Display workflow items.
  SU53: Analyze authorization issues.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error message or provide patches and updates.
  Workflow Management: Familiarize yourself with the workflow management processes in SAP, as understanding how workflows and background jobs interact can help in troubleshooting.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to engage with your SAP support team or consult SAP's official support channels for further assistance.