This article helps resolve situations where forecast values cannot be edited because the forecast or planning period has been locked. Forecast Locking is a normal part of the planning process and is used to protect approved forecasts from unintended changes.
Symptoms #
You may be experiencing one or more of the following:
- Forecast values cannot be edited.
- Forecast cells appear read-only.
- Changes cannot be saved.
- An error indicates that the forecast or planning period is locked.
- The system prevents updates to an approved forecast.
Possible Causes #
The issue may be caused by one or more of the following:
- The planning period has been locked after forecast approval.
- Your user role does not have permission to modify locked forecasts.
- The forecast has already been published.
- Your organization has restricted editing for completed planning periods.
Resolution #
1. Verify the Planning Period
Confirm that you are editing the correct planning period and that it has not already been finalized.
2. Review the Forecast Status
Determine whether the forecast has been approved or locked as part of your organization’s planning process.
3. Confirm Your Permissions
If other users can edit the forecast but you cannot, your security role may not include permission to modify locked forecasts.
4. Contact the Forecast Owner or Administrator
If the forecast legitimately requires changes after it has been locked, contact the appropriate planner or system administrator to determine the next steps.
5. Review the Forecast Audit Log
If you are unsure when the forecast became locked or whether changes were recently made, review the Forecast Audit Log for additional information.
Preventative Tips #
To reduce future occurrences:
- Complete forecast reviews before planning periods are locked.
- Follow your organization’s monthly planning workflow.
- Verify forecast values before requesting approval.
- Understand your organization’s locking schedule.
- Communicate significant forecast changes before the planning period is finalized.