Key Insights
The inkjet printing market, valued at $101.25 million in 2025, is poised for substantial growth, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.32% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. The increasing demand for high-quality, personalized printing in diverse applications like books and publishing, commercial printing, and packaging is a primary catalyst. Advancements in inkjet technology, leading to improved print speed, resolution, and cost-effectiveness, further stimulate market growth. The growing adoption of inkjet printing in specialized segments such as labels and advertising, where precise and vibrant prints are crucial, is also contributing significantly. Furthermore, the ongoing shift towards digital printing solutions, offering greater flexibility and shorter turnaround times compared to traditional methods, is driving market expansion across various industries. Competition among established players like HP, Canon, and Fujifilm, alongside emerging companies, fosters innovation and keeps prices competitive, benefiting end-users.
However, certain restraints could impact market growth. Fluctuations in raw material prices, particularly ink and components, could affect profitability and pricing. The potential for environmental concerns related to ink disposal and energy consumption necessitates the development of more sustainable inkjet solutions. Despite these challenges, the overall market outlook for inkjet printing remains positive, driven by technological advancements, increasing demand across diverse applications, and the continuous adoption of digital printing strategies by businesses worldwide. The projected growth indicates a robust future for the inkjet printing industry, with significant opportunities for both established and emerging players. Geographic expansion, particularly in rapidly developing economies across Asia-Pacific, promises substantial untapped potential.

Inkjet Printing Industry Market Report: 2019-2033
This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the Inkjet Printing Industry, encompassing market dynamics, growth trends, regional dominance, product landscape, key players, and future outlook. The study period covers 2019-2033, with 2025 as the base and estimated year. The report offers invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, and anyone seeking a deep understanding of this dynamic market. The market is segmented by application, including Books/Publishing, Commercial Print, Advertising, Transaction, Labels, Packaging, and Other Applications.
Inkjet Printing Industry Market Dynamics & Structure
The inkjet printing market is characterized by moderate concentration, with several key players dominating significant market shares. Technological innovation, particularly in print quality, speed, and cost-effectiveness, is a primary driver. Stringent environmental regulations regarding ink composition and waste management also shape industry practices. Competitive substitutes, such as laser printing, continue to exert pressure, necessitating continuous innovation. The end-user demographics span diverse sectors, from individual consumers to large-scale commercial printing houses. M&A activity has been moderate, with strategic acquisitions aimed at expanding product portfolios and market reach.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 5 players holding approximately xx% market share in 2025.
- Technological Innovation Drivers: Improved print quality, faster print speeds, reduced ink costs, and eco-friendly inks.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Growing emphasis on environmental compliance and ink waste management.
- Competitive Product Substitutes: Laser printing technologies pose a significant competitive challenge.
- End-User Demographics: Diverse, encompassing individual consumers, businesses, and large-scale printing houses.
- M&A Trends: Moderate activity, primarily focused on strategic acquisitions for portfolio expansion and market access. Estimated xx M&A deals between 2019 and 2024.
Inkjet Printing Industry Growth Trends & Insights
The inkjet printing market experienced a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the historical period (2019-2024) and is projected to grow at a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is fueled by increasing demand from various applications, particularly in packaging and labels, driven by e-commerce growth and personalized marketing strategies. Technological advancements, such as the development of high-speed, high-resolution inkjet printers, are further accelerating market expansion. Consumer behavior shifts towards digital printing solutions are also boosting adoption rates. Market penetration is expected to reach xx% by 2033, with significant potential for growth in emerging markets. The increasing demand for on-demand printing and personalized products is a key driver of market growth.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Inkjet Printing Industry
The North American region holds a significant market share in the inkjet printing industry, driven by strong demand from commercial print and packaging applications. However, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, fueled by rapid economic expansion and increasing adoption of inkjet technology across various sectors. Within application segments, Packaging and Labels are projected to exhibit the fastest growth, driven by the booming e-commerce industry and the rising demand for customized packaging.
- Key Drivers in North America: Strong commercial print and packaging sectors, high technological adoption rates.
- Key Drivers in Asia-Pacific: Rapid economic growth, increasing disposable incomes, and expanding e-commerce sector.
- Fastest Growing Segment: Packaging and Labels, driven by e-commerce and customized packaging needs.
Inkjet Printing Industry Product Landscape
The inkjet printing market showcases a wide range of products, from small-format home printers to large-scale industrial printing systems. Recent innovations focus on enhanced print quality, higher speeds, reduced ink consumption, and improved durability. Key selling propositions include superior image quality, cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and eco-friendly ink options. Technological advancements such as piezo inkjet and thermal inkjet technologies are continually refined to improve performance metrics like resolution, speed, and ink efficiency.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Inkjet Printing Industry
Key Drivers:
- Increasing demand for personalized and on-demand printing.
- Technological advancements in print quality, speed, and cost-effectiveness.
- Growing e-commerce and the need for high-quality packaging.
Challenges and Restraints:
- Competition from alternative printing technologies (e.g., laser printing).
- Fluctuations in raw material prices (e.g., ink components).
- Stringent environmental regulations impacting ink formulation and waste management. This results in an estimated xx million units loss annually.
Emerging Opportunities in Inkjet Printing Industry
- Expansion into untapped markets, particularly in developing economies.
- Development of new applications, such as 3D printing and textile printing.
- Growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly printing solutions.
Growth Accelerators in the Inkjet Printing Industry
Technological breakthroughs in inkjet printing technology, particularly in high-speed and high-resolution printing, are major catalysts for growth. Strategic partnerships between printer manufacturers and ink suppliers are streamlining production and enhancing product offerings. Expanding into new market segments, such as 3D printing and textile printing, are unlocking further growth potential.
Key Players Shaping the Inkjet Printing Industry Market
- Jet Inks Private Limited
- Fujifilm Holdings Corporation
- Canon Inc
- Videojet Technologies Inc
- Xerox Corporation
- HP Development Company LP
- Lexmark International Inc
- Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Co Ltd
- Inkjet Inc
- Brother Industries Ltd
Notable Milestones in Inkjet Printing Industry Sector
- June 2021: Fujifilm announced its entry into the flexible packaging market with the Jet Press FP 790.
- September 2021: Lexmark launched its Lexmark Optra IoT Platform.
- November 2021: Canon India launched the PIXMA E4570 inkjet multifunction printer.
In-Depth Inkjet Printing Industry Market Outlook
The inkjet printing market is poised for continued growth, driven by technological innovation, expanding applications, and increasing demand from diverse sectors. Strategic investments in R&D, strategic partnerships, and expansion into new markets will be crucial for companies seeking to capitalize on future opportunities. The market is projected to reach xx million units by 2033, presenting significant potential for growth and innovation.
Inkjet Printing Industry Segmentation
-
1. Application
- 1.1. Books/Publishing
- 1.2. Commercial Print
- 1.3. Advertising
- 1.4. Transaction
- 1.5. Labels
- 1.6. Packaging
- 1.7. Other Applications
Inkjet Printing Industry Segmentation By Geography
- 1. North America
- 2. Europe
- 3. Asia Pacific
- 4. Latin America
- 5. Middle East and Africa

Inkjet Printing Industry 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 8.32% 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 Big Data
- 3.2.2 IoT
- 3.2.3 and Digitalization of Print Processing and Packaging; Smart Production
- 3.2.4 Speed
- 3.2.5 Flexibility
- 3.2.6 and Cost Control
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Reliance on Other Countries for Raw Materials and Fluctuating Raw Material Prices
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Advertisement is Anticipated to Hold a Dominant Share of the Market
- 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. Global Inkjet Printing Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.1.1. Books/Publishing
- 5.1.2. Commercial Print
- 5.1.3. Advertising
- 5.1.4. Transaction
- 5.1.5. Labels
- 5.1.6. Packaging
- 5.1.7. Other Applications
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.2.1. North America
- 5.2.2. Europe
- 5.2.3. Asia Pacific
- 5.2.4. Latin America
- 5.2.5. Middle East and Africa
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6. North America Inkjet Printing Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.1.1. Books/Publishing
- 6.1.2. Commercial Print
- 6.1.3. Advertising
- 6.1.4. Transaction
- 6.1.5. Labels
- 6.1.6. Packaging
- 6.1.7. Other Applications
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7. Europe Inkjet Printing Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.1.1. Books/Publishing
- 7.1.2. Commercial Print
- 7.1.3. Advertising
- 7.1.4. Transaction
- 7.1.5. Labels
- 7.1.6. Packaging
- 7.1.7. Other Applications
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8. Asia Pacific Inkjet Printing Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.1.1. Books/Publishing
- 8.1.2. Commercial Print
- 8.1.3. Advertising
- 8.1.4. Transaction
- 8.1.5. Labels
- 8.1.6. Packaging
- 8.1.7. Other Applications
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9. Latin America Inkjet Printing Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.1.1. Books/Publishing
- 9.1.2. Commercial Print
- 9.1.3. Advertising
- 9.1.4. Transaction
- 9.1.5. Labels
- 9.1.6. Packaging
- 9.1.7. Other Applications
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10. Middle East and Africa Inkjet Printing Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10.1.1. Books/Publishing
- 10.1.2. Commercial Print
- 10.1.3. Advertising
- 10.1.4. Transaction
- 10.1.5. Labels
- 10.1.6. Packaging
- 10.1.7. Other Applications
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 11. North America Inkjet Printing Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 11.1.1.
- 12. Europe Inkjet Printing Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 12.1.1 Eastern Europe
- 12.1.2 Western Europe
- 13. Asia Pacific Inkjet Printing Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 13.1.1 Asia
- 13.1.2 Australia
- 14. Latin America Inkjet Printing Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 14.1.1.
- 15. Middle East Inkjet Printing Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 15.1.1.
- 16. Competitive Analysis
- 16.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 16.2. Company Profiles
- 16.2.1 Jet Inks Private Limited
- 16.2.1.1. Overview
- 16.2.1.2. Products
- 16.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.2 Fujifilm Holdings Corporation*List Not Exhaustive
- 16.2.2.1. Overview
- 16.2.2.2. Products
- 16.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.3 Canon Inc
- 16.2.3.1. Overview
- 16.2.3.2. Products
- 16.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.4 Videojet Technologies Inc
- 16.2.4.1. Overview
- 16.2.4.2. Products
- 16.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.5 Xerox Corporation
- 16.2.5.1. Overview
- 16.2.5.2. Products
- 16.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.6 HP Development Company LP
- 16.2.6.1. Overview
- 16.2.6.2. Products
- 16.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.7 Lexmark International Inc
- 16.2.7.1. Overview
- 16.2.7.2. Products
- 16.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.8 Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Co Ltd
- 16.2.8.1. Overview
- 16.2.8.2. Products
- 16.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.9 Inkjet Inc
- 16.2.9.1. Overview
- 16.2.9.2. Products
- 16.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.10 Brother Industries Ltd
- 16.2.10.1. Overview
- 16.2.10.2. Products
- 16.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.1 Jet Inks Private Limited
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: North America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: Europe Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: Europe Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: Asia Pacific Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: Asia Pacific Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: Latin America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: Latin America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: Middle East Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: Middle East Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: North America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: North America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: North America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: North America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Europe Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Europe Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Europe Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Europe Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Asia Pacific Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Asia Pacific Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 22: Asia Pacific Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 23: Asia Pacific Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 24: Latin America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 25: Latin America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 26: Latin America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 27: Latin America Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 28: Middle East and Africa Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 29: Middle East and Africa Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 30: Middle East and Africa Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 31: Middle East and Africa Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Eastern Europe Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Western Europe Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Asia Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Australia Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Global Inkjet Printing Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Inkjet Printing Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately 8.32%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Inkjet Printing Industry?
Key companies in the market include Jet Inks Private Limited, Fujifilm Holdings Corporation*List Not Exhaustive, Canon Inc, Videojet Technologies Inc, Xerox Corporation, HP Development Company LP, Lexmark International Inc, Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Co Ltd, Inkjet Inc, Brother Industries Ltd.
3. What are the main segments of the Inkjet Printing Industry?
The market segments include Application.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 101.25 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Big Data. IoT. and Digitalization of Print Processing and Packaging; Smart Production. Speed. Flexibility. and Cost Control.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Advertisement is Anticipated to Hold a Dominant Share of the Market.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Reliance on Other Countries for Raw Materials and Fluctuating Raw Material Prices.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
November 2021 - Canon India launched the all-new PIXMA E4570 inkjet multifunction printer. This is innovated to increase productivity and efficiency at work. The all-new PIXMA E4570 provides a suite of productivity features, combined with high print yields and low-cost printing, making it essential for students, home offices, and even small offices.
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 "Inkjet Printing Industry," 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 Inkjet Printing Industry 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 Inkjet Printing Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Inkjet Printing Industry, 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