Meta-analyzing the trust-performance link in collaboration: Moderating effects of contexts, dynamics, and methodological approaches

Abstract

<p>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.<br></p>