How To Fix WS620 - Document & is currently being processed. Only preview is possible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WS - Supplier Billing Document

• Message number: 620

• Message text: Document & is currently being processed. Only preview is possible

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WS620 - Document & is currently being processed. Only preview is possible ?

  The SAP error message:
  WS620 Document & is currently being processed. Only preview is possible
  Cause:
  This message occurs when a user tries to process or change a document (such as a workflow task, purchase order, or any transactional document) that is currently locked or being processed by another user or system process. The system prevents simultaneous changes to avoid data inconsistencies or conflicts. As a result, the document is only available for preview (read-only mode) until the processing is complete.
  Typical scenarios include:
  
  The document is locked by another user who is editing or processing it.
  A background job or workflow is currently working on the document.
  The document is in a transient state during a workflow step or update.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Wait and Retry:
  
  Since the document is locked temporarily, wait for the other user or process to complete the operation and release the lock. Then try again.
  
  
  Check Lock Entries:
  
  Use transaction SM12 to check for lock entries on the document.  
  
  Enter the relevant object or user name to find locks.  
  If you identify a stale or orphaned lock (e.g., from a crashed session), you may delete the lock after confirming it is safe to do so.
  
  
  
  Coordinate with Other Users:
  
  If another user is working on the document, coordinate with them to finish their processing.
  
  
  Check Workflow or Background Jobs:
  
  If the document is locked by a workflow or background job, check the status of the workflow or job and wait for completion.
  
  
  System Performance:
  
  Sometimes system performance issues cause locks to be held longer than usual. Check system logs and performance if this is a recurring problem.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction SM12: To view and manage lock entries.
  Transaction SWI1 / SWIA: To monitor workflow instances and tasks.
  Lock Objects: Understanding which lock object is used for the document can help identify the locking mechanism.
  SAP Notes: Sometimes SAP releases notes or patches if this locking behavior is caused by a known bug.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  The WS620 message indicates the document is locked for processing by another user or process. The recommended action is to wait until the lock is released or check and manage locks via SM12 if necessary. Coordination with other users or monitoring workflows/background jobs is also important.