Do network management and trust matter for network outcomes? A meta-analysis and research agenda

Collaborative and network governance assume that network management and trust matter for network outcomes. We test this assumption by conducting a meta-analysis of public administration studies investigating the correlation between network management and network outcomes (50 effect sizes), and trust and network outcomes (28 effect sizes). While both matter for achieving network outcomes across countries, trust matters most. Trust is particularly important for achieving process outcomes and multiple network management strategies combined are more effective than separate single strategies. A research agenda centred on complex modelling, comparative research and using mixed, multisource, experimental and longitudinal data is stipulated in conclusion.