Wearables are making a big impact on supply-chain operations, but they won't realize their potential until users can make full use of the data that's generated by the devices.

Imagine that a logistics company learned that a concealed flaw in truck engines was costing up to 100 minutes in lost productivity with every incident – and that the number was continuing to rise.

It’s been a rocky start for high-tech wearable devices for the consumer. But the supply chain offers a more fertile ground for growth.