Domino (also known as bones, cards or men) are rectangular blocks with one or more squares on each side. The squares have values, or pips, ranging from six to none or blank. A domino is normally twice as long as it is wide. Most domino games require a double-six set of 28 tiles, which are shuffled and then used in turn by two players. Larger sets are possible, but most often only a single-nine or double-15 is played with. A larger set may feature additional ends with pips and other markings to make identifying the tiles easier.
When a domino falls, much of its potential energy turns into kinetic energy, the energy that causes movement. Some of this kinetic energy is transmitted to the next domino, providing the push it needs to fall. This cycle continues as the dominoes tumble over each other, one by one. In domino shows, builders create elaborate chains of dominoes that fall in a controlled sequence before an audience of amazed fans.
The domino effect is also a metaphor for how something, or someone, can influence others. It can be a positive or negative force, depending on how the situation is handled. For example, if a man carries a gun and gets angry at a bar patron, that person might cause other people to become angry as well. This can lead to a chain reaction whereby people begin shooting each other, even if they did not originally intend to do so.
A domino effect can occur in a business as well, as shown by the example of Domino’s Pizza. The company started in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and quickly grew. Its founder, Tom Monaghan, emphasized opening Domino’s locations near college campuses to reach the young adult customers it sought. These young adults were more likely to eat out and were accustomed to getting food fast, a trend that helped Domino’s grow even faster.
But in 2004, Domino’s was in serious trouble. The previous CEO, David Brandon, had made a series of decisions that he believed would improve the company. He relaxed the dress code, improved the leadership training program and spoke directly to employees to hear their concerns.
These efforts improved the company and led to a rise in stock prices. But the company still needed to do more to ensure its success. The new CEO, Anthony Doyle, decided to focus on core values, including championing the customer.
Domino’s has been working to do this ever since. Doyle has reintroduced a more authentic Italian menu and worked with crowd-sourced auto designers to create a cool-looking Domino’s delivery car. He’s also looking into drones for the future of Domino’s delivery.
But for many, Domino’s is best known as a game that can be played by all ages. It is an educational and entertaining way to practice counting, addition and subtraction, as well as motor skills. It can also teach patience and perseverance. For older children, it can help develop the ability to see a bigger picture and plan out an end goal.