Domino is a game in which players arrange domino pieces on a table so that each tile touches two or more of the other tiles. This configuration of dominoes is called the layout, string or line of play. Each domino has an identity-bearing side that is marked with an arrangement of dots, known as pips. The other side of a domino is blank or identically patterned to the identity-bearing side. The value of a domino is determined by the number of pips on the side that faces the player.
Unlike dice, which are flat and smooth, dominoes are round and textured. Their shape and texture help them grip the surface on which they are placed. This gripping power, referred to as inertia, makes them resist motion when no force is exerted on them. However, the slightest nudge is enough to set them into motion. This is because a domino has the potential energy stored in it to move past its tipping point and push on the next piece.
The word “domino” is derived from the Italian diminutive of the name of the city of Domenica, which was the birthplace of a man who introduced these playing pieces to Europe. The word is also related to a garment, as it originally denoted a long hooded cloak that was worn with a mask at carnival season or during masquerades. Later, it was a reference to the black domino pieces that contrasted with white surplices worn by priests.
As a result of this change in leadership, Domino’s was unable to maintain its competitive position and began to struggle financially. The company needed to make changes, and fast. In order to compete with new pizza delivery services, Domino’s needed to improve its product and service offerings. This meant listening to its employees and taking action on what they were telling the company.
Domino’s reverted back to its core values and emphasized employee feedback and communication. The company implemented new training programs and relaxed dress codes to help employees feel comfortable in the workplace, and it focused on creating a culture that championed its customers. This refocus on employee and customer satisfaction helped Domino’s to turn around its financial problems.
In many domino games, a player wins by scoring all of the dominoes in his or her hand. The winner is usually the player whose total count of pips is highest, although there are some variations to this rule. For example, some players agree to count only one end of a double when counting the lines of play (i.e. 5-5 counts as 4).
The most common domino sets are made of plastic or resin, but there are also sets that are made from natural materials such as bone, silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother of pearl), ivory, or a dark wood such as ebony with contrasting black or white pips. These natural-material sets have a more traditional look and are typically more expensive than those made of polymer materials.