Beyond dealing with physical preparation, all members of the expeditions played a part in tackling the practical realities of making expeditions happen, everything from securing permits and visas, to accessing remote territories, to negotiating political obstacles in Communist Czechoslovakia. Government backing for climbers, which was seen as a way to promote the country on the international arena, served as the key to open doors to state-owned companies who became sponsors providing funds and materials vital to an expedition’s chance for success.

The division of responsibilities resembled the logistical preparations ahead of a military assault with a clear division of tasks and roles assigned by the expedition leader.