version conflicts and read only mode

version conflicts and read-only mode protect a document when another person, session, or role should not allow direct editing.

updated may 3, 2026 sharing no images
quick answer

when the editor becomes read-only, check role, lock, and version state before changing anything.

use this for

  • collaborative editing issues
  • documents that stop accepting edits
  • supporting teammates with viewer roles

steps

  1. check whether the user has edit permission.
  2. check whether another editor holds the lock.
  3. wait for the lock to expire or request edit.
  4. refresh only after autosave is complete.
  5. resolve any version conflict before continuing.

details to know

  • read-only mode can come from role limits, public access limits, active locks, or stale document versions.
  • version checks prevent one user from overwriting another user's newer content.
  • request edit exists for cases where the user should ask for access.

limits and edge cases

  • do not force a save over someone else's changes.
  • do not tell viewers they can edit just because they can open the document.
  • agents should ask before replacing a document after a conflict.
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