Correlations between trust, cooperation, norms and values in high-tech enterprises in Wielkopolska region

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the article is to analyze the results of research on the interdependencies between cooperation, trust, as well as norms and values, as key elements of social capital in high-tech enterprises in Wielkopolska Region. Design/methodology/approach: The analyzes carried out covered 51 enterprises belonging to advanced technology industries, including 41 small and 10 medium-sized ones. The research was conducted using the interview method, using a questionnaire and supported by the CATI technique. The obtained data were subject to further analysis and statistical inference. They consisted in determining the mutual dependencies for the three resources of social capital, i.e. trust, norms and values as well as cooperation (jointly creating the social capital of these enterprises) and their components. The relationships were determined based on the calculated Pearson's linear correlation coefficients. Findings: Based on the conducted analyzes, it is legitimate to conclude that the designated level of cooperation, norms, values and trust are closely related. For all combinations of the indicated resources, the determined Pearson's linear correlation coefficients are statistically significant with a probability of 0.05. Also, many combinations of the components of these resources are correlated with each other. Practical implications: The application dimension of the article is perceived in at least two possibilities. Firstly, for business representatives, it can be a valuable source of information on the key factors in the appreciation of social capital in a company. Secondly, on the basis of the calculated correlations, the article gives the opportunity to review the most important relationships between these components, which may also be useful from the point of view of the appreciation of social capital in the enterprise. It is also worth emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature by combining the scientific and application aspect, which can be used at the level of company management. Originality/value: This work deals with an original approach to social capital, both due to the conceptualization of the concept of social capital and its components, as well as the interrelationships between its components. It is also worth emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of the work, combining the scientific and application aspects that can be used at the level of company management. Moreover, the methodology described in the research process may be used in enterprises operating in industries other than high-tech.