The effects of trust network among project participants on project performance based on SNA approach: A case study in China

Project participants especially project owners and contractors have important effect in promoting project success. This study investigated the relationship between project participants' trust network and project success in construction projects through social network analysis. Results indicated that a trust network among project participants (excluding the relationship between project owner and contractor) is more influential on project success than trust between the project owner and contractor. Project participants' trust network has significant impact on project cost and quality, but not on schedule, perhaps because political projects in China must be completed before prescheduled deadlines. This study highlights the importance of project participants besides project owners and contractors. Both scholars and professionals should pay attention to project participants relationship management.