The study identifies several key challenges in the research software field. First, there is a significant gap in standardised and meaningful data, limiting visibility into research and infrastructure development, requiring focused efforts to gather necessary data. Second, as the field matures, stronger scaffolding is needed to support its growth, shifting from creation to integration, consolidation, and maintenance. Third, research software infrastructures depend on limited funding sources, highlighting the need to understand how users connect to sustainable financial support. Lastly, coordinated investments, especially from philanthropic funders, are crucial to building foundational infrastructure and fostering collaboration across disciplines and geographies.