Key Insights
The European Automated Demand Response (ADR) market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing energy costs, stringent environmental regulations, and the integration of renewable energy sources. The market, valued at approximately €X billion in 2025 (assuming a reasonable market size based on global ADR market trends and European energy consumption patterns), is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 2.00% through 2033. This expansion is fueled by the rising adoption of smart grids, advancements in energy storage technologies, and the increasing penetration of smart meters across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Government initiatives promoting energy efficiency and grid modernization are further bolstering market growth. The hardware segment, encompassing smart meters, sensors, and communication devices, currently holds a significant market share, followed by software and services. While the residential sector is a key contributor, the commercial and industrial segments are witnessing faster growth due to greater opportunities for energy optimization and cost savings. Key players like Itron, Honeywell, and Siemens are actively investing in R&D and strategic partnerships to strengthen their market positions.
However, the market faces certain challenges. High initial investment costs associated with ADR implementation can deter some customers, particularly smaller businesses and residential consumers. Furthermore, concerns regarding data security and privacy related to smart grid infrastructure could potentially impede market expansion. Despite these restraints, the long-term outlook for the European ADR market remains positive, driven by the escalating need for grid stability, improved energy efficiency, and the reduction of carbon emissions. The increasing adoption of advanced analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) within ADR systems is expected to further propel market growth in the forecast period. Germany, France, and the UK are leading the market in Europe due to their advanced smart grid infrastructure and supportive government policies.

Europe Automated Demand Response Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This detailed report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Europe Automated Demand Response Market, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The study period spans 2019-2033, with 2025 as the base and estimated year, and a forecast period of 2025-2033. The report leverages extensive primary and secondary research to present a granular view of market dynamics, segmentation, competitive landscape, and future growth prospects. The market is segmented by component (hardware, software, services) and application (residential, commercial, industrial).
Europe Automated Demand Response Market Concentration & Innovation
The Europe Automated Demand Response Market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with key players such as Itron Inc, Honeywell International Inc, Hitachi Ltd, Siemens AG, and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation holding significant market share. Precise market share data for each company in 2025 is currently unavailable (xx%), but analysis suggests a gradual shift towards consolidation through mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Recent M&A activity, like E.on SE's acquisition of GridX GmbH, demonstrates the strategic importance of expanding digital solutions portfolios. While the average deal value for M&A activities in this sector is estimated at xx Million, larger deals involving established players significantly shape market dynamics.
Innovation is driven primarily by advancements in IoT technology, AI-powered analytics, and grid modernization initiatives. Stringent regulatory frameworks promoting renewable energy integration and energy efficiency are further catalysts. The market also experiences pressure from product substitutes, such as conventional grid management systems, although the advantages of automated demand response in terms of cost optimization and grid stability are increasingly evident. End-user trends, including rising energy costs and concerns about climate change, are bolstering the adoption of automated demand response solutions.
Europe Automated Demand Response Market Industry Trends & Insights
The Europe Automated Demand Response Market is experiencing robust growth, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is fueled by several key factors: increasing government incentives for renewable energy integration, the need to enhance grid resilience and efficiency, and rising demand for advanced metering infrastructure (AMI). Technological disruptions, particularly the proliferation of smart meters and advanced data analytics, are significantly impacting market dynamics. Consumer preferences are shifting toward energy-efficient solutions, further driving the adoption of automated demand response systems. Competitive dynamics are marked by intense innovation and strategic partnerships, with established players and emerging technology providers vying for market share. Market penetration is expected to reach xx% by 2033, primarily driven by the increasing adoption across the commercial and industrial sectors.

Dominant Markets & Segments in Europe Automated Demand Response Market
Dominant Region/Country: Germany and the UK currently represent the largest markets within Europe, driven by robust renewable energy policies, advanced grid infrastructure, and a higher concentration of industrial and commercial entities adopting automated demand response solutions.
Dominant Segment (By Component): The software segment is predicted to experience the fastest growth due to the increasing importance of advanced analytics and data management capabilities. Hardware, particularly smart meters, forms a crucial component but its growth might be comparatively slower. Services, encompassing implementation, maintenance, and support, are vital for the long-term success of automated demand response deployments and are expected to grow steadily.
Dominant Segment (By Application): The industrial segment holds a dominant position because of the substantial energy consumption and significant potential for optimizing operations through automated demand response. However, the commercial segment is showing rapid growth, driven by increasing awareness of cost savings and energy efficiency benefits. Residential adoption is expected to grow gradually as smart home technologies become more prevalent and affordable.
Key drivers vary across segments. Economic policies favoring renewable energy are significant for all segments. The availability of reliable grid infrastructure is crucial, particularly for the industrial and commercial sectors. Furthermore, government incentives and regulatory frameworks play a crucial role in accelerating the adoption rate.
Europe Automated Demand Response Market Product Developments
Recent product innovations focus on enhancing the integration of AI and machine learning for predictive analytics, improving grid stability, and optimizing energy consumption. New applications are emerging in areas like microgrid management and distributed energy resource integration. Companies are emphasizing competitive advantages through superior data analytics capabilities, cost-effective solutions, and seamless integration with existing grid infrastructure. This ensures the solutions meet the specific needs of different customer segments, improving market fit.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
This report comprehensively analyzes the Europe Automated Demand Response Market across the following segments:
By Component:
- Hardware: This segment encompasses smart meters, communication networks, and other physical infrastructure components. The market size for hardware is projected to reach xx Million by 2033.
- Software: This includes advanced analytics platforms, demand response management systems, and energy management software. This segment is expected to exhibit the highest growth rate.
- Services: This comprises implementation, maintenance, and support services for automated demand response systems. The market is expected to grow steadily in line with increased installations.
By Application:
- Residential: The residential segment is projected to have moderate growth due to increased awareness of energy efficiency and smart home integration.
- Commercial: The commercial segment shows significant growth potential, driven by increasing energy costs and the need to reduce operational expenses.
- Industrial: This segment demonstrates considerable demand because of the significant energy consumption and potential for cost optimization.
Key Drivers of Europe Automated Demand Response Market Growth
The growth of the Europe Automated Demand Response Market is primarily driven by the increasing penetration of renewable energy sources, stricter environmental regulations pushing for energy efficiency, and the need to improve grid resilience and manage peak demand effectively. Government incentives, like subsidies and tax breaks, further encourage adoption. Technological advancements in areas like AI, IoT, and advanced metering infrastructure are also critical growth catalysts.
Challenges in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market Sector
Significant challenges include the high upfront investment costs associated with implementing automated demand response systems, concerns regarding data security and privacy, and the need for robust communication infrastructure in all regions. Regulatory complexities and inconsistencies across different European countries can hinder market growth. Competition from established players and emerging technologies could pose a challenge to smaller companies. Finally, supply chain disruptions related to hardware components can affect market growth.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Automated Demand Response Market
Emerging opportunities include the integration of automated demand response with other smart grid technologies, such as electric vehicle charging infrastructure and energy storage systems. The expansion of automated demand response into new geographical areas, particularly in rural regions with limited grid infrastructure, presents substantial potential. Furthermore, the development of innovative business models, such as energy-as-a-service, could unlock new market opportunities.
Leading Players in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market Market
- Itron Inc
- Honeywell International Inc
- Hitachi Ltd
- Siemens AG
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Autogrid Systems Inc
- Schneider Electric SE
- Eaton Corporation PLC
- General Electric Company
Key Developments in Europe Automated Demand Response Market Industry
- December 2021: EU's Joint Research Centre reviewed smart grid projects, highlighting EUR 2.32 Billion in EU funding. This significantly boosted the sector's growth.
- September 2021: E.on SE acquired GridX GmbH, expanding its digital solutions portfolio and strengthening its market position.
- November 2021: TAURON secured a PLN 2.8 Billion loan from the EIB for AMI and smart grid technology implementation in Poland. This investment signaled a commitment to modernizing grid infrastructure and leveraging data analytics.
Strategic Outlook for Europe Automated Demand Response Market Market
The Europe Automated Demand Response Market is poised for substantial growth, driven by ongoing grid modernization initiatives, increasing adoption of renewable energy sources, and the growing need for enhanced grid resilience. Future opportunities lie in leveraging advanced technologies like AI and IoT to optimize grid operations, improve energy efficiency, and reduce costs. Strategic partnerships and collaborations will be crucial for companies to capitalize on this growth potential.
Europe Automated Demand Response Market Segmentation
- 1. Production Analysis
- 2. Consumption Analysis
- 3. Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 4. Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 5. Price Trend Analysis
Europe Automated Demand Response Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United Kingdom
- 2. France
- 3. Germany
- 4. Rest of Europe

Europe Automated Demand Response Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of > 2.00% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. 4.; Growing Vehicle Ownership4.; Government Initiatives
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; Volatile Crude Oil Prices
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Increased Adoption of Smart Grid Technologies
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 5.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 5.6. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.6.1. United Kingdom
- 5.6.2. France
- 5.6.3. Germany
- 5.6.4. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 6. United Kingdom Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 6.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 6.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 7. France Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 7.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 7.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 8. Germany Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 8.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 8.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 9. Rest of Europe Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis
- 9.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 9.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 9.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 10. Germany Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. France Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Italy Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. United Kingdom Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Netherlands Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Sweden Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Rest of Europe Europe Automated Demand Response Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Competitive Analysis
- 17.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 17.2. Company Profiles
- 17.2.1 Itron Inc
- 17.2.1.1. Overview
- 17.2.1.2. Products
- 17.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.2 Honeywell International Inc
- 17.2.2.1. Overview
- 17.2.2.2. Products
- 17.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.3 Hitachi Ltd
- 17.2.3.1. Overview
- 17.2.3.2. Products
- 17.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.4 Siemens AG
- 17.2.4.1. Overview
- 17.2.4.2. Products
- 17.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.5 Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- 17.2.5.1. Overview
- 17.2.5.2. Products
- 17.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.6 Autogrid Systems Inc
- 17.2.6.1. Overview
- 17.2.6.2. Products
- 17.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.7 Schneider Electric SE
- 17.2.7.1. Overview
- 17.2.7.2. Products
- 17.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.8 Eaton Corporation PLC
- 17.2.8.1. Overview
- 17.2.8.2. Products
- 17.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.9 General Electric Company
- 17.2.9.1. Overview
- 17.2.9.2. Products
- 17.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.1 Itron Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Germany Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: France Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Italy Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: United Kingdom Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Netherlands Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Sweden Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Rest of Europe Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Production Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: Europe Automated Demand Response Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Automated Demand Response Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 2.00%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market?
Key companies in the market include Itron Inc, Honeywell International Inc, Hitachi Ltd, Siemens AG, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Autogrid Systems Inc, Schneider Electric SE, Eaton Corporation PLC, General Electric Company.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Automated Demand Response Market?
The market segments include Production Analysis, Consumption Analysis, Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume), Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume), Price Trend Analysis.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Growing Vehicle Ownership4.; Government Initiatives.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Increased Adoption of Smart Grid Technologies.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Volatile Crude Oil Prices.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
In December 2021, EU's Joint Research Centre reviewed smart grid projects funded by the European Union under its last two FP7 and Horizon 2020 research funding programmes, as well as its competitiveness and innovation programmes on ICT and intelligent energy. Of the total EUR 3.08 billion invested in the projects, the European Union contribution amounted to EUR 2.32 billion serving as a significant driver.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Automated Demand Response Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Automated Demand Response Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence