Missing values and optimal selection of an imputation method and classification algorithm to improve the accuracy of ubiquitous computing applications

Abstract

In a ubiquitous environment, high-accuracy data analysis is essential because it affects real-world decision-making. However, in the real world, user-related data from information systems are often missing due to users' concerns about privacy or lack of obligation to provide complete data. This data incompleteness can impair the accuracy of data analysis using classification algorithms, which can degrade the value of the data. Many studies have attempted to overcome these data incompleteness issues and to improve the quality of data analysis using classification algorithms. The performance of classification algorithms may be affected by the characteristics and patterns of the missing data, such as the ratio of missing data to complete data. We perform a concrete causal analysis of differences in performance of classification algorithms based on various factors. The characteristics of missing values, datasets, and imputation methods are examined. We also propose imputation and classification algorithms appropriate to different datasets and circumstances.