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.
(..) This is Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade. I would like a limo, . What are you drinkin'? Nothing, thanks. I don't use it. What's useful about it? I don't know. Listen, Colonel, I have to get going. Where you goin'? Back to school. I've got some real important stuff I have to take care of. (..)1992 Scent of a Woman