Zakaria Dakhli

Before joining the University of Cambridge, Zakaria contributed to the launch of the industrial research chair “Construction 4.0” at Centrale Lille, in partnership with a global construction company. This chair was aimed at developing the modern face of construction through robotics, industrialisation, lean construction, A.I, and data-driven technologies. Moreover, Zakaria worked as a consultant for several French construction companies for which he outlined the strategy map for a Construction 4.0 transition, and currently explores how the construction industry could transition towards a more service-based industry leveraging digital technologies. His research revolves around developing viable digital services and business models for the construction industry, and more specifically for offsite manufacturing. No fair or universal business model will guarantee value generation and exponential growth: it takes on an organised character specific to each business. However, there could be a systematic approach valid for a set of targeted sub-sectors. Zakaria’s work aims at unveiling the patterns of a viable digital business model and developing a framework that guides the industry through its shift towards digital off-site manufacturing.