The Importance of Using Domain Knowledge When Designing and Implementing Data-Driven Decision Models for Maintenance: Insights from Industrial Cases

The advanced technologies available in the development of Smart Maintenance within Industry 4.0 have the potential to significantly improve the efficiency of industrial maintenance. However, it is important to be careful when deciding which technologies to implement for a given application and when evaluating the quality of the data generated. Otherwise, what should be cost-effective solutions may end up being cost-driving. The use of domain knowledge in selecting, developing, implementing, setting up, and utilizing these technologies is increasingly important for achieving success. In this paper, we will elaborate on this topic by presenting and analyzing insights from industrial cases, drawing on the authors’ extensive experience in the field.