Final answer:
Buyers create a short list of top suppliers to simplify the selection process by narrowing down the options to the most qualified and promising candidates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Buyers often develop a short list of the top three to five suppliers to reduce the work involved in selecting a source. A short list is a narrowed-down list of options that have met certain criteria, making it easier for buyers to make a final decision. The short list is typically created after an initial assessment of a larger group of potential suppliers. By focusing on the top candidates, companies can spend their time and resources evaluating and negotiating with the most promising and qualified suppliers.