The data could 'prove (to be) useful' [=people may eventually find that the data is helpful] in identifying future problems.
the 'useful life' of a satellite [=the amount of time during which a satellite is in good enough condition to be used]
Her pocketknife 'came in useful' [=(more commonly) 'came in handy'] when we needed to cut the tangled fishing line.
(..) I've never been out of the country. It's uh, it's my dream to go to Paris. Paris... It's why I'm taking French. My mom said French wasn't useful. It is if you wanna go to Paris. Still don't know how to use those rollers that you gave me. -Oh. Oh, it's so easy. So, it's- after they heat up you... (..)2017 Lady Bird