1. It is impossible to compile a unique list of reasons, which caused the tragedy. Although from the organizational prospective the expedition was very likely to end unsuccessfully, the irrational behaviour of the individuals in the team can be justified by the unpredictable and non-standard conditions during the expedition. Poor organization, inability to follow the schedule and logistical issues showed the poor level of preparedness of the team. Bad judgement of the individuals (Hall and Fischer) put the whole group under the risk. However, their mistakes could have been done by any most experienced guide, and no systematic approach can ensure 100% safety on an expedition as complicated.
2. People in the team had no doubt about their physical ability to reach the summit, they believed that weather will remain still. The teams considered that falling behind the schedule was within the limit. Little oxygen and just a few radios were considered sufficient. These assumptions made people deviate from the original plan and continue going up despite the danger. The result of this, unfortunately, was tragic.
3. The case study indicates that safety is the highest priority in any undertaking. Individuals should clearly set performance plan and strictly follow security regulations. Moreover, adherence to the preset rules should be enforced despite all the emotional considerations.
Comments: It is definitely true, that confidence and ambition made the biggest contribution into the tragedy on the Mountain Everest. Commercial success and the desire to meet the challenge blinded Fischer and Hall to the dangers associated with the summit. Their clients were also too ambitious about their abilities and based their judgement on the commercial advertising, rather than on pure facts and rational thinking.
Multiple assumptions made during the expedition were detrimental for the summit success. In the undertaking as dangerous as the expedition to Mount Everest, neither clients nor guides can assume anything. They have to double-check all the assumptions and to adhere to the safety regulations, since even most experience guides and most trained people can make mistakes, which can lead to tragic consequences.
