Domino is a small rectangular block used to play games. When a domino is set up correctly, it can trigger a chain reaction that knocks over hundreds or thousands of others with the slightest nudge. This is known as the domino effect, and it’s also a useful metaphor for the way that certain events can influence — and even overturn — our expectations about how things should turn out.
Dominoes are a popular family activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Many children enjoy playing with them by lining them up in long rows and then knocking them over. Other children may prefer to use them to create elaborate patterns that look like art. Dominoes can be found in stores and online, and they are available in a variety of different styles and colors. A complete domino set typically includes 28 pieces.
Some of the earliest sets of dominoes were made from a variety of natural materials. In addition to bone, silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother of pearl) and ivory, some sets were carved from dark woods such as ebony. Some modern sets are made from polymers, but traditional wood and ceramic clay dominoes remain the most common.
Many of the world’s most famous domino builders have appeared on television shows, where they compete to set up the most impressive domino effects and reactions before an audience of fans. The skill of these performers is not just in creating the right setup, but in predicting how each domino will react to the one before it. This skill requires a deep understanding of how the system works and the ability to see what might happen in each step of the process.
When it comes to writing, a good story is often a series of dominoes. The right choice of words and phrases can build momentum and keep the reader engaged, just as each successive word in a series of sentences or paragraphs pushes on the next one in the line. But if you miss a key plot beat or go overboard with a cliche, the entire sequence can fall apart.
To make sure that each domino in her installation will work the way she wants it to, Hevesh tests each section of a project before putting them all together. By filming the test and reviewing it later, she can make precise corrections if something doesn’t quite work.
A company that has experienced major leadership changes is a bit like a domino that’s been tipped over and lost its balance. A lack of strong leadership can cause a company to stumble and lose its way, and the impact of that loss is widespread and far-reaching. Domino’s experienced this problem with the departure of CEO David Brandon in 2004. He was replaced with a new CEO, Scott Doyle, who focused on addressing the main complaint that customers had about the pizza delivery company — high prices and slow service.