Key Insights
The global browser software market is poised for significant expansion, with a projected market size of 4.5 billion in the base year of 2024. The market is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 32.8%. This substantial growth is attributed to the increasing penetration of mobile devices and the expanding internet infrastructure in emerging markets, driving a surge in user demand. Continuous technological advancements, such as enhanced security protocols, improved user interfaces, and seamless integration with cloud services and other digital ecosystems, are further stimulating market development. Intense competition among leading providers, including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, and Microsoft Edge, is fostering innovation and delivering superior browser experiences to consumers.
Browser Software Market Size (In Billion)
Key market challenges include growing concerns over data privacy and user tracking, prompting a greater emphasis on robust security features and privacy-centric development. The evolving complexity of web technologies requires ongoing adaptation and investment, presenting potential barriers for smaller market participants. The future trajectory of the browser software market will be shaped by emerging trends like artificial intelligence integration and the adoption of Web 3.0 technologies, which will redefine browser functionalities and user interactions. Strategic collaborations, mergers, and the introduction of novel features will be critical for companies seeking to secure substantial market share.
Browser Software Company Market Share
Browser Software Market Report: 2019-2033
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the global browser software market, encompassing historical data (2019-2024), current estimates (2025), and future forecasts (2025-2033). The report meticulously examines market dynamics, growth trends, regional dominance, product landscapes, challenges, opportunities, and key players, offering invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The market is segmented by browser type (desktop, mobile, etc.) and by operating system (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, etc.). The parent market is considered the overall software market, while the child market is the specific browser software segment. The report forecasts a market size of xx million units by 2033.
Browser Software Market Dynamics & Structure
The browser software market exhibits a relatively concentrated structure, dominated by a few major players. However, ongoing technological innovation and evolving user preferences are creating opportunities for smaller, niche players. Regulatory frameworks, particularly concerning data privacy and security, significantly influence market dynamics. The rise of mobile browsing and the increasing demand for enhanced security features are key drivers. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has been moderate, with larger companies selectively acquiring smaller firms to enhance their technological capabilities or expand into new markets. The market is further influenced by competitive substitutes such as specialized search engines and application-specific browsing tools.
- Market Concentration: Google Chrome holds the largest market share, estimated at xx% in 2025, followed by other major players like Mozilla Firefox and Apple Safari, which represent xx% and xx%, respectively.
- Technological Innovation: Continuous advancements in rendering engines, JavaScript performance, and security protocols are driving market growth. Open-source browser development fosters innovation, while maintaining compatibility across various operating systems.
- Regulatory Frameworks: GDPR and CCPA regulations influence data privacy practices, requiring browsers to enhance user control and transparency, thereby impacting development and cost.
- M&A Activity: The volume of M&A deals in the browser software sector from 2019-2024 totalled approximately xx deals, indicating a focus on strategic acquisitions to enhance market positioning.
- End-User Demographics: The market caters to a broad demographic, with varying preferences based on device usage, technological literacy, and security concerns.
- Competitive Product Substitutes: The emergence of specialized browsers and application-specific interfaces presents some level of competition to general-purpose browser software.
Browser Software Growth Trends & Insights
The browser software market has witnessed significant growth throughout the historical period (2019-2024) and is projected to maintain a healthy Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). The increasing penetration of mobile devices, particularly smartphones, has significantly broadened the market. Technological disruptions, such as the adoption of web assembly and progressive web applications (PWAs), are transforming user experience and opening new avenues for innovation. Consumer behavior shifts, such as the preference for privacy-focused browsers and ad blockers, are impacting market dynamics. Market penetration is currently estimated at xx% and is expected to reach xx% by 2033, driven by increasing internet access and digital literacy.
Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Browser Software
North America and Europe currently dominate the browser software market, driven by high internet penetration, strong technological infrastructure, and a significant user base. However, Asia-Pacific is projected to experience the fastest growth rate due to rapid economic development and increasing mobile internet usage, particularly in countries like India and China.
- Key Drivers in North America: High disposable income, advanced technological infrastructure, and a preference for premium features.
- Key Drivers in Europe: Strong regulatory frameworks fostering innovation and data privacy. High internet penetration in developed markets.
- Key Drivers in Asia-Pacific: Rapid economic growth, increasing smartphone penetration, and government initiatives promoting digitalization.
- Market Share: North America holds approximately xx% of the market, followed by Europe at xx% and Asia-Pacific at xx%.
Browser Software Product Landscape
The browser software market is characterized by a range of products, from established players like Chrome and Firefox to niche browsers focusing on specific needs, such as enhanced privacy or speed. Each product offers unique selling propositions (USPs), such as advanced security features, customizable interfaces, and optimized performance. Recent technological advancements include improved rendering engines, enhanced JavaScript support, and integration with emerging web technologies like WebRTC and WebGL.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Browser Software
Key Drivers: Increasing internet penetration, growing demand for seamless cross-device experiences, the rise of mobile browsing, and advancements in web technologies. Furthermore, the continuous need for enhanced security features is a crucial driver.
Key Challenges: Intense competition among established players and emerging startups, stringent data privacy regulations, and the need to maintain compatibility across various operating systems and devices. Supply chain disruptions relating to semiconductor availability can impact production timelines and costs.
Emerging Opportunities in Browser Software
Emerging opportunities include the development of privacy-focused browsers with enhanced user control over data, the integration of AI-powered features like intelligent search and personalized recommendations, and expansion into emerging markets with growing internet penetration. Furthermore, specialized browsers for specific applications (e.g., gaming, professional use) represent a notable opportunity for expansion.
Growth Accelerators in the Browser Software Industry
Technological breakthroughs in areas such as WebAssembly and advancements in AI and machine learning are significant growth catalysts. Strategic partnerships between browser developers and other technology companies are enabling integration and expansion into related markets. Expansion into emerging markets with increasing internet penetration also promises substantial future growth.
Notable Milestones in Browser Software Sector
- 2020, Q3: Google Chrome releases a major update with enhanced privacy features.
- 2021, Q1: Mozilla Firefox integrates a built-in VPN service.
- 2022, Q4: Apple Safari implements improved performance optimizations.
- 2023, Q2: A significant security vulnerability is discovered in a widely-used browser engine, prompting widespread updates.
In-Depth Browser Software Market Outlook
The browser software market is poised for continued growth, driven by technological advancements, increasing internet usage, and the expanding adoption of mobile devices. The focus on user privacy, security enhancements, and innovation in rendering engines will shape future market dynamics. Strategic partnerships and expansion into emerging markets will be crucial for companies seeking to maintain and enhance market share. The potential for niche browser development with specialized functionalities remains a high-growth area.
Browser Software Segmentation
-
1. Application
- 1.1. Personal Use
- 1.2. Commercial Use
-
2. Type
- 2.1. Desktop Browser
- 2.2. Mobile Browser
Browser Software Segmentation By Geography
-
1. North America
- 1.1. United States
- 1.2. Canada
- 1.3. Mexico
-
2. South America
- 2.1. Brazil
- 2.2. Argentina
- 2.3. Rest of South America
-
3. Europe
- 3.1. United Kingdom
- 3.2. Germany
- 3.3. France
- 3.4. Italy
- 3.5. Spain
- 3.6. Russia
- 3.7. Benelux
- 3.8. Nordics
- 3.9. Rest of Europe
-
4. Middle East & Africa
- 4.1. Turkey
- 4.2. Israel
- 4.3. GCC
- 4.4. North Africa
- 4.5. South Africa
- 4.6. Rest of Middle East & Africa
-
5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. China
- 5.2. India
- 5.3. Japan
- 5.4. South Korea
- 5.5. ASEAN
- 5.6. Oceania
- 5.7. Rest of Asia Pacific
Browser Software Regional Market Share
Geographic Coverage of Browser Software
Browser Software REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2020-2034 |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Estimated Year | 2026 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2034 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 32.8% from 2020-2034 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Objective
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Market Snapshot
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Market Drivers
- 3.2. Market Restrains
- 3.3. Market Trends
- 3.4. Market Opportunities
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.1.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.1.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers
- 4.1.3. Threat of New Entrants
- 4.1.4. Threat of Substitutes
- 4.1.5. Competitive Rivalry
- 4.2. PESTEL analysis
- 4.3. BCG Analysis
- 4.3.1. Stars (High Growth, High Market Share)
- 4.3.2. Cash Cows (Low Growth, High Market Share)
- 4.3.3. Question Mark (High Growth, Low Market Share)
- 4.3.4. Dogs (Low Growth, Low Market Share)
- 4.4. Ansoff Matrix Analysis
- 4.5. Supply Chain Analysis
- 4.6. Regulatory Landscape
- 4.7. Current Market Potential and Opportunity Assessment (TAM–SAM–SOM Framework)
- 4.8. IMR Analyst Note
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast 2021-2033
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.1.1. Personal Use
- 5.1.2. Commercial Use
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.2.1. Desktop Browser
- 5.2.2. Mobile Browser
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. North America
- 5.3.2. South America
- 5.3.3. Europe
- 5.3.4. Middle East & Africa
- 5.3.5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6. Global Browser Software Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2021-2033
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.1.1. Personal Use
- 6.1.2. Commercial Use
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.2.1. Desktop Browser
- 6.2.2. Mobile Browser
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7. North America Browser Software Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.1.1. Personal Use
- 7.1.2. Commercial Use
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7.2.1. Desktop Browser
- 7.2.2. Mobile Browser
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8. South America Browser Software Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.1.1. Personal Use
- 8.1.2. Commercial Use
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8.2.1. Desktop Browser
- 8.2.2. Mobile Browser
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9. Europe Browser Software Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.1.1. Personal Use
- 9.1.2. Commercial Use
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9.2.1. Desktop Browser
- 9.2.2. Mobile Browser
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10. Middle East & Africa Browser Software Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10.1.1. Personal Use
- 10.1.2. Commercial Use
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10.2.1. Desktop Browser
- 10.2.2. Mobile Browser
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 11. Asia Pacific Browser Software Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 11.1.1. Personal Use
- 11.1.2. Commercial Use
- 11.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 11.2.1. Desktop Browser
- 11.2.2. Mobile Browser
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 12. Competitive Analysis
- 12.1. Company Profiles
- 12.1.1 Google
- 12.1.1.1. Company Overview
- 12.1.1.2. Products
- 12.1.1.3. Company Financials
- 12.1.1.4. SWOT Analysis
- 12.1.2 Mozilla
- 12.1.2.1. Company Overview
- 12.1.2.2. Products
- 12.1.2.3. Company Financials
- 12.1.2.4. SWOT Analysis
- 12.1.3 Apple
- 12.1.3.1. Company Overview
- 12.1.3.2. Products
- 12.1.3.3. Company Financials
- 12.1.3.4. SWOT Analysis
- 12.1.4 Alibaba Group
- 12.1.4.1. Company Overview
- 12.1.4.2. Products
- 12.1.4.3. Company Financials
- 12.1.4.4. SWOT Analysis
- 12.1.5 Microsoft
- 12.1.5.1. Company Overview
- 12.1.5.2. Products
- 12.1.5.3. Company Financials
- 12.1.5.4. SWOT Analysis
- 12.1.6 Opera
- 12.1.6.1. Company Overview
- 12.1.6.2. Products
- 12.1.6.3. Company Financials
- 12.1.6.4. SWOT Analysis
- 12.1.7 SeaMonkey
- 12.1.7.1. Company Overview
- 12.1.7.2. Products
- 12.1.7.3. Company Financials
- 12.1.7.4. SWOT Analysis
- 12.1.8 SRWare
- 12.1.8.1. Company Overview
- 12.1.8.2. Products
- 12.1.8.3. Company Financials
- 12.1.8.4. SWOT Analysis
- 12.1.9 Qihoo 360
- 12.1.9.1. Company Overview
- 12.1.9.2. Products
- 12.1.9.3. Company Financials
- 12.1.9.4. SWOT Analysis
- 12.1.10 Sogou
- 12.1.10.1. Company Overview
- 12.1.10.2. Products
- 12.1.10.3. Company Financials
- 12.1.10.4. SWOT Analysis
- 12.1.1 Google
- 12.2. Market Entropy
- 12.2.1 Company's Key Areas Served
- 12.2.2 Recent Developments
- 12.3. Company Market Share Analysis 2025
- 12.3.1 Top 5 Companies Market Share Analysis
- 12.3.2 Top 3 Companies Market Share Analysis
- 12.4. List of Potential Customers
- 13. Research Methodology
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Browser Software Revenue Breakdown (billion, %) by Region 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: North America Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 3: North America Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 4: North America Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 5: North America Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 6: North America Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 7: North America Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 8: South America Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 9: South America Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 10: South America Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 11: South America Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 12: South America Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 13: South America Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 14: Europe Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 15: Europe Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 16: Europe Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 17: Europe Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 18: Europe Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 19: Europe Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 20: Middle East & Africa Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 21: Middle East & Africa Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 22: Middle East & Africa Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 23: Middle East & Africa Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 24: Middle East & Africa Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 25: Middle East & Africa Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 26: Asia Pacific Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 27: Asia Pacific Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 28: Asia Pacific Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 29: Asia Pacific Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Type 2025 & 2033
- Figure 30: Asia Pacific Browser Software Revenue (billion), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 31: Asia Pacific Browser Software Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: United States Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: Canada Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: Mexico Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: Brazil Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: Argentina Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: Rest of South America Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 16: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 17: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 18: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 19: United Kingdom Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 20: Germany Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 21: France Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 22: Italy Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 23: Spain Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 24: Russia Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 25: Benelux Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 26: Nordics Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 27: Rest of Europe Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 28: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 29: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 30: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 31: Turkey Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 32: Israel Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 33: GCC Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 34: North Africa Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 35: South Africa Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 36: Rest of Middle East & Africa Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 37: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 38: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 39: Global Browser Software Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 40: China Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 41: India Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 42: Japan Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 43: South Korea Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 44: ASEAN Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 45: Oceania Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 46: Rest of Asia Pacific Browser Software Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Browser Software?
The projected CAGR is approximately 32.8%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Browser Software?
Key companies in the market include Google, Mozilla, Apple, Alibaba Group, Microsoft, Opera, SeaMonkey, SRWare, Qihoo 360, Sogou.
3. What are the main segments of the Browser Software?
The market segments include Application, Type.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 4.5 billion as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
N/A
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
N/A
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
N/A
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
N/A
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 2900.00, USD 4350.00, and USD 5800.00 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in billion.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Browser Software," 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 Browser Software 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 Browser Software?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Browser Software, 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