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.
(..) The face I have been obliged to present each day since your absence... ...that is my true mask. I returned. Out of fear, not loyalty. Still, you have proved yourself useful these past few months, Wormtail. Thank you, master. Thank you. - Such a handsome boy. - Don't touch him! (..)2005 Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
(..) Hello, Father. You are no son of mine. Curiosity is not a sin, Harry. But you should exercise caution. It's a Pensieve. Very useful if, like me, you find your mind a wee bit stretched. It allows me to see once more things I've already seen. You see, Harry, I have searched (..)2005 Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire