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 watched Lord Business' forces completely overlook it. Which means we need more ideas like it! ...that no one would ever think they could possibly be useful. ...what's the last thing Lord Business expects MasterBuilders will do? How you gonna keep 'em down on the farm? No! It's follow (..)2014 The Lego Movie