Learning from the Titanic and Concordia sea disasters: How understanding leadership failures from past catastrophes helps us minimize future risk

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

This research paper concentrates on how human behavior caused both the Titanic and the Concordia sea disasters. Insights from scuba divers and from the command of aircraft carriers are also drawn upon to reveal leadership lessons aimed at mitigating risk in less predictable environments. The need for rational decision-making by leaders, as well as having pre-arranged behavior systems to remove cognitive biases and avoid in-the-moment panic, are of paramount importance when implementing consistent safety strategies at sea. Remaining loyal to this approach minimizes the risk of preventable disasters occurring.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Citation

(2020), "Learning from the Titanic and Concordia sea disasters: How understanding leadership failures from past catastrophes helps us minimize future risk", Strategic Direction, Vol. 36 No. 7, pp. 23-25. https://doi.org/10.1108/SD-04-2020-0080