Domino is a generic name for any of the many games that can be played using dominoes. A domino set is a row of small, oblong pieces that are marked on one side with a number of spots or pips, similar to those used on dice, and blank or identically patterned on the other. These pips are usually arranged to form a pattern that matches that of the adjacent pieces, and the value of a domino is determined by its total pip count. A traditional domino set has 28 unique pieces, each with a different combination of pips on its two ends (either zero, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6).
The first time you see a long line of dominoes falling down, it can be pretty satisfying. But what exactly is it about these little oblongs that makes them so interesting? The answer is the Domino Effect.
In business, this is the process by which a single event can trigger a chain reaction that leads to greater success. It is also the name of the book by Jim Collins that discusses how companies can use the Domino Effect to achieve their goals and dreams.
For example, a company may hire a top-notch salesperson to lead its business development efforts. This person can help the organization identify its most promising customers and create a plan to increase its business with them. If the business follows through on this plan, it can expect to see its revenue grow exponentially, like a domino effect.
But this is only possible if the business has built a culture that fosters growth and continuous improvement. Otherwise, the company may get stuck in a cycle of mediocrity. This can be difficult to avoid, but it can be done by encouraging innovation, promoting the importance of customer relationships, and creating a culture that promotes teamwork and collaboration.
In addition to a focus on growth, the Domino Effect also requires the business to be nimble and quick to respond to opportunities or threats. This can be done by developing strategies at a functional level and encouraging departments to work together. This can be particularly important if the company is trying to implement change quickly.
When it comes to writing, the Domino Effect can be helpful for writers who prefer to be pantsers instead of using outlines or other tools to plot their stories ahead of time. For example, if a writer is trying to build up tension in their story by creating suspense, but the scenes they write seem to fall flat or lack logical impact on the scenes that follow, this may indicate that something needs to be changed. Like a domino, each scene should have enough momentum to push the next scene in the right direction. To do this, the writer should set clear goals and begin with the smallest task possible. Then, they should commit to that goal and keep it up, even if it feels uncomfortable or daunting at times.