When is a supply proposal typically developed?

A supply proposal is typically developed during the planning phase of procurement because this stage involves defining the project's requirements and identifying the necessary resources. During this phase, organizations assess what materials, services, or products they need and the best strategies for obtaining them. Crafting a supply proposal at this time allows for a comprehensive understanding of how the supplies will fit into the broader project objectives and timelines.

This choice aligns with the systems engineering process, which emphasizes early identification of requirements and resource needs to ensure successful project execution. Proposals created during this phase help in evaluating potential suppliers, estimating costs, and eventually guiding contract negotiations.

In contrast, other options pertain to different stages of the procurement process where a supply proposal would not be effectively created. Developing a proposal after contract negotiation would be too late in the process, as it would limit the ability to adequately assess bids and make informed decisions. Similarly, creating the proposal before finalizing project plans might lack the necessary context about project objectives, while waiting until securing funding would delay the procurement process and could lead to a rushed decision-making scenario. Thus, the planning phase is the most appropriate context for developing a supply proposal.