The effect of uncertainty and cooperative behavior on operational performance: Evidence from Brazilian firms

Authors

  • Eliane Pereira Zamith Brito FUNDAÇÃO GETÚLIO VARGAS - EAESP
  • Marta Fabiano Sambiase UNIVERSIDADE PRESBITERIANA MACKENZIE
  • Fernando Coelho Martins Ferreira FUNDAÇÃO GETÚLIO VARGAS - EAESP
  • Adilson Aderito da Silva UNIVERSIDADE PRESBITERIANA MACKENZIE

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.12660/joscmv10n2p71-84

Keywords:

Uncertainty, cooperative behavior, cooperation, operational performance, Brazilian firms

Abstract

This study aims to examine the effect of managers’ uncertainty on cooperative behavior in interorganizational relationships, and how this affects operational performance.  We conducted a survey with 225 Brazilian managers, and analyzed data using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling. Results present: a) a negative influence of uncertainty of state on operational performance; b) a positive influence of uncertainty of effect on uncertainty of response; c) a significant influence of uncertainty of response on cooperative behavior; and d) a positive influence of cooperative behavior on performance. The results indicated that cooperation and uncertainty accounted for 18.8% of the variability of operational performance. Considering the uncertainty that plagues Latin societies, this study can help to create more efficient ways to deal with the phenomenon. Rather than turning a blind eye to uncertainty, our study underscores it and treats it like another business environment issue. 

Author Biographies

Eliane Pereira Zamith Brito, FUNDAÇÃO GETÚLIO VARGAS - EAESP

PROFESSOR

Marta Fabiano Sambiase, UNIVERSIDADE PRESBITERIANA MACKENZIE

PROFESSOR AT CENTRE FOR SOCIAL AND APPLIED SCIENCES (CCSA)

Fernando Coelho Martins Ferreira, FUNDAÇÃO GETÚLIO VARGAS - EAESP

PROFESSOR

Adilson Aderito da Silva, UNIVERSIDADE PRESBITERIANA MACKENZIE

PROFESSOR AT CENTRE FOR SOCIAL AND APPLIED SCIENCES (CCSA)

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Published

2017-12-15

Issue

Section

Special Issue on Supply chain and operations strategies for problem-solving in Latin American countries