The DREAMS Matrix

When to Use This Activity

I use this activity after introducing AI basics to help participants:

• Move beyond basic content generation
• Discover thoughtful AI applications for their work
• Learn to combine different AI capabilities

I typically run this after a Task Mapping activity.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Understand the six ways AI can enhance work (DREAMS framework)
• Identify concrete AI applications for real tasks
• Learn to combine multiple AI capabilities for better results

Materials Needed

• DREAMS Cards (one set per group)
• Task Matrix Template (physical or digital)
• Post-its in different colors
• Markers

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Setup (5 min)

I start by:

• Creating groups of 3-4 participants
• Having each group pick 1-3 real tasks they want to enhance with AI
• Setting up the matrix: Tasks as columns, DREAMS categories as rows

2. Explore DREAMS (10 min)

• I introduce each DREAMS category with an example
• Have groups read the reflection questions on their DREAMS cards
• Demonstrate how to place ideas on the matrix

3. Matrix Filling (15 min)

• Groups brainstorm AI applications for each task/category intersection
• Use reflection questions on DREAMS cards when stuck
• Write each idea on a Post-it and place it in the matrix
• Encourage combinations of categories

4. Gallery Walk (10 min)

• Groups rotate to review other matrices
• Use voting cards to mark interesting ideas
• Each group presents their most voted idea

5. Action Planning (5 min)

• Participants select one idea to implement
• Write down first steps and potential challenges
• Share implementation plans

Facilitation Tips

Keep Energy High

I like to:

• Set a timer for matrix filling
• Play music during brainstorming
• Encourage movement between tables

Handle Common Issues

• Stuck on basic uses: Show examples combining multiple categories
• Too abstract: Ask "How would you use this tomorrow?"
• Analysis paralysis: Start with quantity over quality

Variants

For Large Groups (20+ people)

When I'm working with large groups, I:

• Use my Stormz template (you'll find it in the Starter Kit)
• Have one person per team submit their best ideas via phone
• Let teams work physically with cards and matrix first
• Lead a group debrief using all the collected ideas on the main screen

For Time-Constrained Sessions

• Assign one DREAMS category to each team of 3
• Teams become "category experts" focusing on their assigned way
• Each team shares their top 2 use cases
• Collectively build the full DREAMS picture through sharing

Brainwriting Variant

• Room picks one task to focus on
• Each person/team gets one DREAMS card
• Teams write one use case idea on a Post-it and stick it to their card (3 min)
• Pass cards clockwise to next team
• New team reads previous ideas and adds their own
• Continue until each DREAMS card has 4 Post-its (one on each side)
• End with teams presenting the different use case ideas on their final card

For Virtual Sessions

When running this remotely, I:

• Use my Miro template (you'll find it in the Starter Kit) - it has everything set up with DREAMS cards and matrix
• For small groups (<8): Let everyone collaborate simultaneously
• For larger groups: Use breakout rooms with 3-4 people per room

For Advanced Groups

• Add constraints (e.g., "no text generation")
• Focus on category combinations
• Include ethical considerations

What's Next

After identifying promising use cases, participants can:

• For Prompt Engineering Beginners: Start with the How to Assess a Prompt guide to learn the basics of writing effective prompts.
• For Experienced Users: Move directly to the Build Your Prompt activity to prototype your selected use cases.

Resources

• DREAMS Framework Guide
• Task Mapping Activity
• Demo Library for inspiration