Data issues in industrial AI systems: A meta-review and research strategy

In the era of Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence (AI) is assumed to play an increasingly pivotal role within industrial systems. Despite the recent trend within various industries to adopt AI, the actual adoption of AI is not as developed as perceived. A significant factor contributing to this lag is the data issues in AI implementation. How to address these data issues stands as a significant concern confronting both industry and academia. Thus, this study conducts a comprehensive meta-review of data issues and corresponding methods in industrial AI. Eighty-two data issues are identified and categorized into seven stages of the data lifecycle. To supplement the existing research that focuses more on data issues arising in historical data, this study subsequently discusses the management of real-time sensor data and expert domain knowledge. Meanwhile, it proposes a model-aware data preparation approach, which integrates the data characteristics with specific AI model requirements to enhance data usability and algorithm alignment. This approach is further integrated into a conceptual framework that combines managerial and technical perspectives for systematically resolving data issues. The framework provides actionable insights and a systematic method for AI practitioners and industrial system developers to anticipate and address data-related challenges. Finally, the study highlights future research directions. This study advances the existing body of knowledge, supports a seamless transition from traditional model-centric AI to data-centric AI, and offers practical guidelines for professionals navigating the complexities of achieving data excellence in industrial AI applications. • In AI projects, it is critical to consider industrial needs and data usability. • The successful implementation of AI is hindered by various data issues. • Data lifecycle theory offers a structured framework for examining data issues. • Aligning data nature with specific AI model requirements is critical.