Mount Everest – 1996

1. Why did this tragedy occur? What is the root cause of this disaster?

The root and exact causes of the Mount Everest 1996 tragedy to occur is difficult to separate.
Both leaders needed to have experienced guides. Besides, the clients were inexperienced, and
the weather conditions were horrible. Both teams needed more communication skills. They
were called teams; meanwhile, some members didn't even know each other and were not
motivated to help when needed.

2. Are tragedies such as this simply inevitable in a place like Everest?

It is hard to answer this question because sometimes tragedies can occur in an unexpected time
and place. But in this case, each climber knew there was a high risk of death, and no one was
guaranteed to stay alive. In a place like Everest, it is impossible to anticipate weather
conditions, which was one of the primary reasons many died. However, I believe that climbers
may avoid some of the tragic deaths in case of better guidance, communication, and
experienced team members.

3. What is your evaluation of Scott Fischer and Rob Hall as leaders? Did they make some poor
decisions? If so, why?

When reading the case study, I felt Fischer considered Hall's decisions and followed his
sometimes-false choices. For example, taking a few antique radios was a random decision that
later caused difficulties. Besides, Fischer should have considered that his leading guide was not
as good to trust fully.
The main problem for both leaders was that they underestimated the mountain's danger and
needed to develop trust and communication in their teams.