During which process do both parties work to find common ground among their differences?

The process where both parties work to find common ground among their differences is indeed the planning of negotiations. During this stage, stakeholders assess their positions and interests, identify potential areas of agreement, and establish strategies for addressing conflicting viewpoints. This collaborative effort aims to create a foundation for effective communication and compromise, which is essential for reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.

In the context of contract management, planning negotiations involves gathering relevant information, understanding the needs and priorities of the involved parties, and preparing for potential challenges that may arise during discussions. This strategic approach not only helps in identifying common interests but also sets the stage for successful negotiation outcomes.

The other choices involve different stages of the contract management process. Selecting a source pertains to the evaluation and choice of suppliers or vendors, which does not inherently involve negotiation or finding common ground on differences. Preparing an offer relates to formulating a proposal based on previously defined requirements, while administering a contract focuses on managing and ensuring compliance with the terms after an agreement has been reached. Neither of these stages primarily centers on negotiating differences.