According to the PMBOK® Guide, specifically within the Manage Team process, there are five general techniques for resolving conflict. Smoothing (also known as Accommodating) is the specific technique that emphasizes areas of agreement rather than areas of difference.

Definition of Smoothing/Accommodating: This technique involves de-emphasizing or avoiding the areas of conflict and instead focusing on the points where the parties agree. It is often used to maintain harmony in a relationship or when the issue is more important to the other party than to oneself.

The Goal: The primary objective is to maintain a friendly atmosphere and reduce the emotional intensity of the conflict. It is a " conceding " position where one party may sacrifice their own concerns to satisfy the concerns of the other.

Result: While it can provide temporary relief and keep the project moving, it is often a lose-win scenario. Because the underlying conflict is not actually addressed or solved, the issue may resurface later.

Comparison with Other Options:

Compromising (A): Also known as Reconcile. This involves searching for solutions that bring some degree of satisfaction to all parties in order to temporarily or partially resolve the conflict. It is a " give-and-take " approach (lose-lose).

Collaborating (B): Also known as Problem Solving. This involves incorporating multiple viewpoints and insights from differing perspectives. it requires a cooperative attitude and open dialogue that typically leads to consensus and commitment (win-win).

Problem Solving (D): As noted above, this is synonymous with Collaborating. It treats the conflict as a problem to be solved by examining alternatives; it does not simply " smooth over " differences but works through them.