Dominoes are small rectangular blocks of wood or plastic, bearing an arrangement of spots on one side, resembling those on dice. They are typically played by two or more people, in a game of chance and skill. A domino set consists of all the pieces needed to play the games, which can include simple positional game playing and more elaborate constructions of straight or curved lines, grids that form pictures when they fall, or even 3-D structures such as towers or pyramids.
Traditionally, domino sets were made from bone or silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother of pearl) and ivory or dark hardwoods such as ebony with contrasting black or white pips inlaid or painted. Modern plastic dominoes are common, but many people still prefer natural materials for their durability and aesthetics. In addition to bone, pearl and ivory, sets can be found in solid stone; marble, granite or soapstone; ceramic clay; brass, pewter, or bronze; or frosted glass or crystal.
The basic rule for playing a domino is that each tile must be played so that its matching ends touch each other or form a certain number. The resulting chain of tiles forms a snake-line shape across the tabletop. The resulting total can be used to score points in the game.
Hevesh uses a version of the engineering-design process to create her mind-blowing domino installations. She brainstorms the theme or purpose of her project, then works through ideas for images and words that will fit with that concept. Next, she considers how to make the whole thing work within the limits of physics and her own design skills. Once she has a plan, she tests each part separately and then puts it all together.
When Hevesh is working on a complex project, she may take up to 15 minutes to set up just one section. This is because she needs to ensure that the whole setup is secure and won’t be impacted by a small mistake or the slightest breeze. Once it is finished, however, all she has to do is stand back and watch the dominoes fall.
Domino Art
When creating domino art, the designs can be as simple or complicated as the artist wants. Some artists make straight or curved lines, grids that shape pictures when they fall, stacked walls, or even 3-D structures such as towers and pyramids. The artist can also use a variety of colors and shapes to make the pieces pop.
Leadership at Domino
When Domino’s CEO Steve Doyle took over in 2010, he put into place several changes designed to boost the company’s image and create a more positive work environment. These included a relaxed dress code and new leadership training programs. In addition, he emphasized the importance of listening to employees and taking their feedback seriously. This line of communication is crucial to Domino’s success, and it continues today.
Leadership at Domino’s is based on a few core values, the most important of which is championing their customers. This includes paying close attention to customer feedback and acting on it as quickly as possible. The company has also embraced the principles of behavioral theory, which promotes the idea that leaders are not born, but made.