There is a movement for more transparency in the offer process by buyers, but how can this be acheived without hurting the seller?

I would think the listing agents would never say there are other offers or highest and best unless there are other offers on the table. It is more likely they will lose a sale than make a few more dollars by telling a lie.

Bigtoe, it would be against the agency contracts in most states!

To do that it would become an auction. As well as unless you have the permission from all parties most states do not allow it.