Retry settings for Excel operations blocked by 423 file locked don't work

[MattC_A]

The retry settings for Excel operations like Insert Row look very promising for getting round the issue where the spreadsheet is locked (error 423);

However, those setting make no difference to the running of the Flow.. it still fails, and doesn't appear to re-attempt the operation with the policy settings I've specified. 

Looks like a bug to me. I've also raised this problem as an Idea in case that's the proper way of raising this kind of issue.

https://powerusers.microsoft.com/t5/Flow-Ideas/Excel-retry-options-should-work-with-file-locked-erro...

[v-zhos-msft · Accepted solution]

Hi MattC_A,

I think the issue was not caused by Retry Policy.

When you want to write data in excel file, first you need to create Table in Excel file so you can append table row using flow action.

It needs some time to sync data, during this time, the Excel File is locked. I suggest you wait a moment  to retry it.

In addition, I suggest you to use the Excel online (Business) connector.This is Standard Connector which is recently released by excel team.

And could you please share a screenshot of your flow's configuration? Then I can do more analysis for you.

Best Regards,

Zhongys

[MattC_A]

Thank for your response.

The table already exists in the Excel file. I'd created that at the start. Data will get appended to the table correctly until I have it open in another browser tab.. at which point the Flow fails to run. Then the retry mechanism has no effect.

I'd like to insert a screenshot, but for some reason this reply editor isn't letting me upload images 

Oh, I wasn't quite logged in enough to add an image.. here you go..

I'll try switching the Excel Online Business connector instead. Out of interest, why would that make any difference?

[MattC_A]

Just following up.. switching the Business connector worked.. which is a bit nuts.. I don't see why there would be a difference, nor why the retry mechanism in the other version doesn't work. Hey ho, at least it's working now.