Which of the following best describes the process of bid shopping?

Bid shopping refers to the practice of requesting lower bids from subcontractors after an initial bid has been submitted. This process often occurs when a general contractor, having already submitted a bid for a project based on certain subcontractor prices, seeks to reduce their costs by approaching those subcontractors to negotiate lower prices. This can create a competitive environment among subcontractors, but it also raises ethical concerns as it can undermine trust and collaboration within the industry.

In contrast, obtaining multiple bids upfront is a standard practice in the bidding process, allowing project owners to compare different options before making a decision, which does not define bid shopping. Lowering prices for materials may occur for various reasons but isn't specific to the concept of bid shopping. Finally, negotiating terms with clients after bidding typically relates to finalizing project details rather than the competitive bidding dynamics associated with bid shopping. Hence, the focus on seeking lower bids from subcontractors after the initial submission is the distinguishing characteristic that clearly defines bid shopping.