Dominoes are small, flat blocks used as gaming objects. They are normally twice as long as they are wide, and they have a square-shaped ridge on one side that holds an arrangement of spots (also called pips) that is either blank or identical to the pips on another side. The value of a domino is determined by counting the number of pips on its two ends. Dominoes are also used to build intricate structures such as towers and pyramids.

The word “domino” is commonly used to refer to a sequence of events that start with one small action that causes a chain reaction. This concept of the domino effect is often used in business to describe the impact of a small change on a larger system. For example, a Domino’s employee tipping over a domino may result in the customer ordering more pizzas, which might increase sales and profits for the company.

Domino’s began with a single store in Ypsilanti, Michigan, in 1960. Founder Peter Monaghan recognized the importance of location and worked to open stores in areas with lots of college students. This strategy helped the Domino’s brand grow quickly.

A decade later, Domino’s faced a serious challenge when its pizza became less popular than expected. Monaghan and his team responded by addressing complaints directly with customers. The company also focused on marketing, using a new slogan: Think Global, Act Local. By revamping the branding, Domino’s returned to profitability and established a reputation for quick delivery of pizza.

In addition to boosting the company’s popularity, these changes made Domino’s more attractive to investors. In the 1990s, Domino’s expanded its presence abroad and introduced pizza to a wider audience. Domino’s has continued to pursue growth by focusing on the core customer and expanding internationally.

The company has also experimented with technology, including delivery by drones and a self-driving car that can make deliveries on its own. It has a strong commitment to its employees and regularly asks them for feedback. The company has also partnered with crowd-sourced auto designers to create a customized Chevrolet Spark.

Domino’s has an effective culture and a well-established plan for growth. Its focus on the customer and innovative initiatives have helped it stay competitive. These strategies will likely continue to pay off as the company grows toward its goal of 25,000 global locations by 2025.