"This workflow is locked by another user and cannot be edited. Please try again later." when trying to modify a workflow type in Microsoft Dynamics GP

This article provides a solution to an error that occurs when trying to modify a workflow type in Microsoft Dynamics GP.

Applies to:   Microsoft Dynamics GP
Original KB number:   4012573

Introduction

When trying to modify workflow, you're getting this message:

This workflow is locked by another user and cannot be edited. Please try again later.

Cause

This message is typically caused by a user making a change to the workflow type at the same time, or the change is stuck in the workflow table. When making a change, the workflow type is locked down in the WF00104 table, and when the change is saved, the record is dropped from this table.

Resolution

Use these steps in SQL Server Management Studio against the company database:

1. Review the workflow table to see if the name of the workflow you're using is listed, to indicate the record is locked.

   PowerShell

   select * from WF00104 where Workflow_Type_Name = 'xxxxxxxxxxxxx'
   

   --modify the placeholder for the workflow name

   Example:

   PowerShell

   select * from WF00104 where Workflow_Type_Name = 'Payables Transaction Approval'
   

2. If you found a record in this table and no other users are currently editing the workflow type, you can remove it from the table:

   ** Make sure to have a current backup of the company database before doing this step, and that no other user is actually modifying the workflow at the same time.

   PowerShell

   Delete WF00104 where Workflow_Type_Name = '
   
   xxxxxxxxxxxxx
   
   '
   

   --modify the placeholder for the workflow name

   Example:

   PowerShell

   Delete WF00104 where Workflow_Type_Name = 'Payables Transaction Approval'
   

3. Now have the user go back into the Workflow Maintenance window and try to modify the workflow again.