1996 Mt. Everest
The case of Mount Everest provides background information of the 1996 Mount Everest expedition’s tragedy and victory. This expedition was led by some of the world’s greatest high-altitude climbers and experienced professionals as well as those who were not expert in the sport. The case provides detailed information as well as feedback about the tragedy that occurred during this two-month expedition to the world’s highest and most dangerous peak. It offers a way for readers to analyze and to formulate their own reason for the tragic loss of lives that occurred. The task of climbing Mount Everest is certainly not to be taken lightly. Considering the history of deaths that have occurred, these experienced climbers such as Rob Hall and Scott
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Following the 1996 Everest tragedy, many people were curious to find out what took place. Many questioned whether the guides could have been better leaders. Yes, both Hall and Fischer could have been better at their decision making and overall leadership of these people. The feedback and testimonials of other members of the expedition alluded to the fact they were unprepared and uncertain of the outcome of this trip. There were many instances throughout the case that showcased their personalities. This expedition appeared to stem from a business and power perspective, meaning the interests to protect the lives of the climbers was never principal in the mind of these leaders. This can be supported by the high cost of the expedition, the backgrounds of the climbers, and choosing people who were not necessarily physically fit despite knowing climbing Mount Everest is a rigorous task that undoubtingly requires physical strength. To further showcase their lack of sound judgement and leadership skills, the turnaround time was not established until the day of the summit. As mentioned in the case, for a point that was so heavily stressed and reiterated by Hall, not having a clear turnaround point clearly cast doubt in his ability to lead the group. Their poor decisions along the pursuit to the summit further illustrates their bad leadership. For example, assuming the guide ropes were installed by previous climbers rather than checking and ensuring they were. For something as critical as this to be overlooked or assumed is not indicative of good leadership skills. In the end, some of the issues that transpired were outside their control, such as the logistical problems in getting the oxygen. In conclusion, I agree with Boukreev, we cannot specify a cause. Better leadership skills could have lessened
Following the 1996 Everest tragedy, many people were curious to find out what took place. Many questioned whether the guides could have been better leaders. Yes, both Hall and Fischer could have been better at their decision making and overall leadership of these people. The feedback and testimonials of other members of the expedition alluded to the fact they were unprepared and uncertain of the outcome of this trip. There were many instances throughout the case that showcased their personalities. This expedition appeared to stem from a business and power perspective, meaning the interests to protect the lives of the climbers was never principal in the mind of these leaders. This can be supported by the high cost of the expedition, the backgrounds of the climbers, and choosing people who were not necessarily physically fit despite knowing climbing Mount Everest is a rigorous task that undoubtingly requires physical strength. To further showcase their lack of sound judgement and leadership skills, the turnaround time was not established until the day of the summit. As mentioned in the case, for a point that was so heavily stressed and reiterated by Hall, not having a clear turnaround point clearly cast doubt in his ability to lead the group. Their poor decisions along the pursuit to the summit further illustrates their bad leadership. For example, assuming the guide ropes were installed by previous climbers rather than checking and ensuring they were. For something as critical as this to be overlooked or assumed is not indicative of good leadership skills. In the end, some of the issues that transpired were outside their control, such as the logistical problems in getting the oxygen. In conclusion, I agree with Boukreev, we cannot specify a cause. Better leadership skills could have lessened