This paper deals with the theme of compatibility/trade-off between different types of performance, in particular in relation to time quality and economic performance. The concepts of trade-off and compatibility are analysed, formally defined and subsequently used in an empirical study. The distinctive company competences, which are relevant in the achievement of high-level performance, and greater compatibility between different types of performance, are also considered. The links between competence and performance are analysed on a sample of manufacturing companies. It has been observed that the overcoming of trade-off is correlated with the presence, variety and value of the distinctive competences of the company.