A domino (also called bones, cards, men, pieces or tiles) is a rectangular tile with one or more sides that are marked with one or more dots. Each side of a domino is usually twice as long as it is wide. A domino is normally able to be re-stacked after use. The number of dots on each end of a domino is often used to determine the value of a domino in a game of dominoes. In most sets, the maximum number of dots on each end is six, but many extended sets may feature ends with more or less than this.
The term domino is also used in the context of a popular theory about communist countries: the Domino Theory, which suggests that if one country or region experiences positive change, this will lead to the fall of other Communist countries and regions. This concept has led to the development of the idiom domino effect, which describes a chain reaction that begins with a single event and ultimately leads to much greater–and sometimes catastrophic–consequences.
Domino art is the practice of creating designs with a domino track. This can be done in straight lines, curved lines, grids that form pictures when the dominoes fall, or 3D structures such as towers and pyramids. Domino art can be quite complex, with some artists using thousands of dominoes to create mind-blowing designs.
In a domino show, builders set up hundreds or thousands of dominoes in careful sequence and then watch as the entire lineup topples with the nudge of just one. This type of demonstration is a popular attraction in casinos and other venues for people seeking a little more excitement than the usual card games, dice and board games.
When writing a novel, an author can use the idea of the domino effect to help readers follow the logic of the story and understand why a character does what she does. This is especially important when a character does something immoral or outside of societal norms. In such cases, the author must provide sufficient motivation and reason for her to do so, or the domino effect will fail.
Domino’s is a well-known pizza delivery company that has experienced some financial difficulties in recent years. However, the company was able to turn things around by implementing new leadership and following its core values. These values include listening to customers and embracing the Domino’s culture. This approach helped the company to rebound from some difficult times and become one of the best workplaces in the world again. The Domino’s Pizza chain has embraced the domino effect in the workplace as well, by providing a safe and welcoming work environment for its employees. In addition, the company has encouraged employee involvement in making decisions that impact the business. As a result, the company has seen an increase in productivity and morale. This has in turn led to an increase in profitability.