Meta-Analyzing the Trust-Performance Link in Collaboration: Moderating Effects of Conceptual and Contextual Factors

Abstract

Trust is vital for effective collaboration, but its impact on collaboration performance has produced inconsistent findings. This study examines the trust-collaboration performance link by testing the moderating effects of diverse conceptual and contextual factors. Through a comprehensive meta-analysis of 31 empirical studies, we synthesize siloed findings and offer a systematic and evidence-based examination of the trust-collaboration performance link. Our findings show that the trust-collaboration performance relationship is positive and stronger when trust is cognition-based rather than affect-based, when performance content focuses on process and outcomes, and when performance is subjectively measured. In addition, trust is more important in low generalized trust countries and in cross-sectoral or nonprofit collaboration. These moderation effects manifest differently in different collaboration forms, with trust playing a less salient role in contracting. These findings unravel the nuanced dynamics of trust within collaboration and have substantial implications for scholars and practitioners in collaborative governance and network management.

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