How trust affects supply chain performance: The moderating role of the interdependence structure

The aim of this paper is to analyze the positive relationship between trust and supply chain performance and to investigate whether the interdependence structure of the supply chain network moderates such an effect. Interdependencies occur in supply chain because supply chain partners depend upon one another for product and process accomplishments and for the needed resources and capabilities owned by their partners. The interdependence structure is described in terms of interdependence pattern (which partner depends on each one) and degree of interdependence (density of interdependencies). Both variables are supposed to moderate the relationship between trust and enhanced supply chain performance. The proposed conceptual model is operazionalized through NK model and finally tested using simulation. Results confirm that the positive effect of trust on supply chain performance varies across the different examined interdependence structures. We also find that trust is detrimental for supply chain performance under a particular type of pattern characterized by a dependent form of interactions.