Table 1

Conceptual and operational descriptions for each trust dimension (also presented in previous work53 54)

Dimension of trust	Definition	Network question
1. Vulnerability	Describes the willingness of an actor (trustor) to be vulnerable to the actions of another actor (trustee). The trustor does not have complete control over how the trustee will behave and is thus, uncertain about how the individual will act, which also implies that there is something of importance to be lost, and in turn, risk involved. Therefore, to be vulnerable, there must be an opportunity for risk where the trustor must then decide if they are willing to take the risk of placing trust in the trustee. Furthermore, if there is the possibility of risk, this implies that there will be some level of uncertainty regarding how the trustee will behave. It is noted that if there is trust between partners, there is a lower level of uncertainty between how the trustee will behave. In summary, for this sub-theme we consider uncertainty and risk as necessary aspects of vulnerability.	“I would discuss with [name of network member X] how I honestly feel about my work, negative feelings and frustrations.”
2. Integrity	Concerns the extent to which the trustor thinks that the trustee will act in their best interest and the belief that the trustee will follow a set of principles, deemed acceptable by the trustor, such as they will say what is true.	“[name of network member X] keeps my interest in mind when making decisions.”
3. Reliability	Describes the confidence in and extent to which the trustor believes the trustees will follow-through on commitments, perform a given task and/or make decisions about something.	“[name of network member X] is dependable. For example, they stick to their word and makes sure their actions and behaviours are consistent.”
4. Ability	Describes an individual’s (trustee) ability to perform a given task or make decisions about something based on their perceived skill set and competence from the perspective of another individual (trustor).	“I am comfortable asking [network member X] to take responsibility for project tasks even when I am not present to oversee what they do.”
5. Shared values, visions and goals	Highlights the need to have shared visions, values and goals in partnerships. Specifically, common goals, missions and plans can promote trust.	“I feel that [network member X] shares a vision with PPI Ignite Networks vision and goals?”
6. Power-sharing and co-ownership	Sharing power and fostering co-ownership in partnerships as a dimension of trust.	“I feel that [network member X] is open to discussion* about matters pertaining to the PPI Ignite Network.” *Note: When we say open to discussion, we mean that this individual is willing to engage in frank, open and civil discussion (especially when disagreement exists). The person is willing to consider a variety of viewpoints and talk together (rather than at each other) and you are able to communicate with this individual in an open, trusting manner.
7. Reciprocity	This subtheme describes the presence of trust based on the notion that they think the trustee also trusts them back. Thus, if a trustor thinks that the trustee also trusts them, trust is thought (by the trustor) to be reciprocated (by the trustee).	“I feel that [network member X] trusts me.”