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.
(..) "and a brilliant people..." "rising from this abyss." "I see the lives... for which I lay down my life..." "peaceful..." "useful, prosperous and happy." "I see that I hold a sanctuary in their hearts..." "and in the hearts of their descendants..." "generations hence." (..)2012 The Dark Knight Rises