What is the most common cause of task degradation or mission failure?

Human error is often cited as the most common cause of task degradation or mission failure because it encompasses a wide range of mistakes that personnel can make during operations. This includes errors in judgment, lapses in attention, miscommunication, and improper execution of procedures. In high-stakes environments like the Navy, the complexity of tasks and the pressure to perform can heighten the likelihood of human error occurring.

While technical malfunctions, environmental factors, and resource limitations can also lead to failures, these issues are often more predictable and can sometimes be mitigated through training and preparations. In contrast, human error is more variable and can arise in any aspect of operation, affecting decision-making and actions in unpredictable ways. Statistically, studies of operational incidents have consistently shown that human error is a leading factor in mishaps across various domains, making it crucial to focus on reducing the potential for these errors through comprehensive training and robust safety management practices.