Calculative trust, relational trust, and organizational performance: A meta-analytic structural equation modeling approach

We draw on transaction cost economics and social exchange theory to explore how two different types of inter-organizational trust, namely, calculative trust and relational trust, affect organizational performance. Our meta-analysis of 60 empirical studies shows that both types of trust have a positive effect on organizational performance. However, the two types of trust influence organizational performance through different mediating mechanisms. Whilst calculative trust influences organizational performance through inter-organizational information exchange and uncertainty, relational trust affects organizational performance through inter-organizational communication and commitment. Our study enhances understanding of the mechanisms through which trust influences organizational performance, and also provides an explanation of the contradictory findings regarding the relationship between inter-organizational trust and organizational performance.