Domino is a small, flat, rectangular block used as a gaming object. It has a blank or identically patterned side and one that bears from one to six dots or pips (one to eight counts as a full set). When playing with dominoes, players place them on a table or other flat surface in lines and angular patterns. The points on the dominoes are scored according to rules governing the game being played.
As Hevesh describes, the most exciting thing about a domino setup is the chain reaction. The energy that caused the first domino to fall travels down the line and pushes the next one over without losing any energy. It’s a bit like the firing of a neuron.
For Hevesh, designing a new domino setup is much like creating a story. She starts with an idea of what she wants the overall effect to be, then finds ways to connect the pieces together. She brainstorms images or words that might be relevant to the piece she’s designing. She draws out the layout using a sketch pad or computer program. This allows her to get a better sense of the overall structure before she begins laying out the individual dominoes.
Domino’s founder Tom Monaghan started his company in Ypsilanti, Michigan in 1967. He grew the business by focusing on placing stores near college campuses, which gave him access to a demographic that loved pizza and liked to eat it quickly.
By the mid-1980s, Domino’s had a reputation for delivering pizza in 30 minutes or less. But as demand increased, it became difficult to keep up with delivery times, and Domino’s was unable to meet its promise. It was also experiencing a high turnover rate among employees, and its leadership was concerned that the company’s image was being tarnished.
After a disappointing advertising campaign, Monaghan decided to try a different approach. Instead of concentrating on new markets, he focused on making changes in the company’s operations. This included implementing a more rigorous training program and talking directly to workers. The result was an increase in morale and a decrease in turnover, and the company reclaimed its reputation for fast service.
In addition, Domino’s began experimenting with delivery by drone and other methods of transporting the pizza. These changes are designed to make the delivery process more efficient, but they’re also meant to modernize Domino’s image and create a sense of style. These strategic changes have had a direct impact on the company’s bottom line.
The company’s new strategy has been credited with helping Domino’s avoid bankruptcy and remain a top food brand. However, it’s important to note that this success was not solely due to the efforts of the CEO and senior leadership team. Employees were just as responsible for the company’s turnaround. Leadership and management are not synonymous, but Domino’s chose to take a participatory approach to management that encourages employees to make the crucial decisions that will affect the company’s future.