Which of the following best summarizes the contract management process?

The comprehensive nature of the contract management process is aptly summarized by the option focusing on managing contracts throughout all phases. Contract management is not limited to just the formation of contracts or to any single aspect of a contract's lifecycle. Instead, it encompasses a series of vital activities that begin with planning and drafting contracts, move through negotiation, execution, performance monitoring, and ultimately lead to contract closure and renewal.

Managing contracts through all phases ensures that organizations can effectively mitigate risks, ensure compliance with terms and regulations, monitor performance, manage relationships with stakeholders, and assess the outcomes against the contractual agreements. This holistic view helps in optimizing processes and achieving desired objectives associated with the contracts. Each phase requires careful consideration and management to ensure that contractual obligations are met and that the interests of all parties involved are protected, making this the most accurate summary of the contract management process.

The other options are too narrow in scope, thereby failing to capture the comprehensive nature of contract management. Developing contracts only addresses the initial phase without accounting for ongoing monitoring or compliance aspects. Closing contracts quickly overlooks the importance of properly managing contracts throughout their entire lifespan. Auditing existing contracts focuses solely on evaluating past performance, which is just one part of the broader continuous process of contract management.