PurposeThe paper seeks to understand the implications of partner opportunism for project relationships.Design/methodology/approachBased on the theoretical literature, the paper presents a conceptual model considering the perspective of the organization impacted by partner opportunism.FindingsThe model proposes that partner opportunism lowers willingness to engage by creating perception of loss. The undesirable impact of opportunism on perceived loss is less if the partner has made high relation-specific investments. Also, the negative impact of perceived loss on willingness to engage is less if the partner is difficult to substitute.Research limitations/implicationsThe model can be tested in the context of information technology (IT) relationships because of scope for opportunism in IT project relationships. Data can be collected through experimental vignettes.Originality/valueThe model contributes by investigating novel aspects of governance, behavioral consequences of opportunism and relation-specific investments in project relationships. The paper suggests that organizations can protect themselves against the ill effects of partner opportunism by enabling their stakeholders to invest substantial time and effort in the relationship and fortify relational quality and bonding.

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The contribution of psychological factors in project relationships has received limited attention. Taking the standpoint of vendor project managers, we examine their justice perceptions, affect, and consequent behavior in response to client opportunism. Data collected from 182 respondents from the information technology industry reveal that vendor project managers perceive reduced distributive and interpersonal justice, and experience lower positive and higher negative affective states, resulting in more venting and disengagement and less constructive discussion and passive acceptance. Findings suggest that psychological factors can bring about detrimental behavior in client–vendor relationships. This has long-term implications for project relationships where client opportunism occurs.

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