When a launch schedule outruns new technology

Titanic's loss belongs to a wider pattern in which ambitious technology looked ready on paper before it had been tested at the extremes. Navies could fire new weapons at old hulls and support extensive trials, while liner companies faced intense pressure to put a flagship into service. Parts were transferred from Olympic to keep Titanic's programme moving, a familiar expedient made conspicuous by the importance attached to this one ship. Borrowing components was a normal expedient. Prestige and an immovable schedule still narrowed the room for testing, delay, and correction.