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.
(..) Oh, I'll just... ...stay back here. - Yes, of course. I see you have one of these collapsible pointers. So very useful. It is so degrading to have to point with your finger... ...or one of those long wooden sticks... ...like you are some sort (..)2006 The Pink Panther