The centrality of communication norm alignment, role clarity, and trust in global project teams

Abstract

Research has confirmed the criticality of communication norms, role clarity and trust to the workings of global virtual teams. However, the relationship among these three variables remains unclear. In this study, based on findings from a survey of 218 global project workers representing 33 distinct project teams, we demonstrate the significance of role clarity and trust to individuals' project satisfaction and role clarity to individuals' project performance. We further uncover how global project team (GPT) members' satisfaction and/or performance are affected by where the GPT members are located and whether GPT members are co-located with their project manager. These findings are complemented by 18 in-person interviews with GPT members, which show how one must simultaneously establish and maintain role clarity for oneself while consistently negotiating role clarity with others also participating on global project teams. We conclude this study by outlining an emerging model for creating and sustaining GPTs that benefits both researchers and practitioners.