A domino is a flat, thumb-sized rectangular block used as a game piece. Its face may be blank or bearing from one to six pips, dots, or numbers in a line: 28 such pieces make a complete set. The term can also be applied to any of the various games played with such pieces, whereby they are arranged edge to edge in lines or angular patterns. It is also used to refer to the overall effect of a chain reaction, the way the sequence of events following a single event causes subsequent events to occur in a specific order.
Dominoes have inertia, a tendency to resist motion when no external force is acting on them. However, a slight nudge can cause them to fall over and start a chain reaction. In a similar manner, some tasks require an initial nudge to get started. When these tasks are completed, they can create the potential energy needed to push on other tasks that need to be done. This can be referred to as the domino effect.
As a metaphor, the concept of a domino effect is often used in business. It describes the cumulative impact of a series of events, much like a row of falling dominoes, that lead to an outcome that is significantly different from the original intention or goal.
Several studies have shown that the way managers and employees perform their jobs has a significant impact on the overall success of an organization. For example, a manager who treats employees with respect and encouragement is more likely to have a team that operates well together. This leads to a higher level of productivity and better customer satisfaction. These positive impacts are called the domino effect and can be seen in companies of all sizes, from small family-owned businesses to multinational corporations.
Another type of domino effect is a story element that relates to how the scenes in a novel or short story flow together and influence each other. In fiction, these scene dominoes might be characters or ideas that are ineffective by themselves but when placed together help the narrative move forward. The domino effect is important because it helps readers understand why a character does what she does. If the character does something that goes against societal norms, it’s up to the author to provide the logic that allows readers to accept the behavior or explain why it’s justified.
Similarly, students with learning challenges can be compared to falling dominoes. Compensating for a lack of basic skills can negatively impact a student’s ability to learn and progress in class. One small error or delay can lead to frustration, a feeling of being overwhelmed, and the tendency to compensate with less-important or irrelevant skills. This is a form of the domino effect and can hinder student achievement. Fortunately, there are many ways to identify and address student difficulties before they become overwhelming.