Key Insights
The embedded die packaging market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for miniaturized and high-performance electronic devices across various sectors. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 22.40% from 2019 to 2024 indicates a significant upward trajectory, projected to continue into the forecast period (2025-2033). Key drivers include the proliferation of advanced electronics in consumer electronics (smartphones, wearables), IT and telecommunications (high-speed data centers, 5G infrastructure), automotive (advanced driver-assistance systems, electric vehicles), and healthcare (portable medical devices, implantable sensors). The growing adoption of sophisticated packaging technologies like die-in-rigid board and die-in-flexible board solutions caters to the need for smaller form factors, higher integration density, and improved thermal management, fueling market expansion. While potential restraints such as high initial investment costs and complexities associated with advanced packaging techniques exist, the overall market momentum is positive, primarily due to continuous innovation and the unrelenting demand for miniaturization and enhanced performance in electronic systems. The segmentation by platform (Die in Rigid Board, Die in Flexible Board, IC Package Substrate) and end-user (Consumer Electronics, IT and Telecommunications, Automotive, Healthcare, Other End Users) reveals diverse growth opportunities, with consumer electronics and the automotive sector anticipated to be major contributors. Leading players like Infineon Technologies AG, TDK Corporation, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company are investing heavily in research and development to maintain their competitive edge, further shaping the market landscape.
The Asia Pacific region is expected to dominate the market due to a high concentration of electronics manufacturing and a burgeoning consumer electronics market. North America and Europe will also witness substantial growth, driven by technological advancements and the increasing adoption of embedded die packaging in various applications. Considering the historical data (2019-2024) and projected CAGR, a reasonable estimate for the market size in 2025 is around $X billion (assuming a starting market size of $Y billion in 2019). The forecast period (2025-2033) will see a sustained growth trajectory, influenced by the factors mentioned earlier and ongoing technological advancements. Continuous innovation in materials, processes, and design techniques will likely address existing limitations and create new opportunities for market expansion, leading to significant revenue generation across all segments.

Embedded Die Packaging Market: A Comprehensive Report 2019-2033
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Embedded Die Packaging market, offering invaluable insights for stakeholders seeking to navigate this dynamic landscape. The study period spans 2019-2033, with 2025 serving as the base and estimated year. The forecast period extends from 2025-2033, building upon historical data from 2019-2024. This report meticulously examines market size, growth drivers, technological advancements, competitive dynamics, and emerging opportunities, providing a clear roadmap for future strategic decision-making.
Embedded Die Packaging Market Concentration & Dynamics
The Embedded Die Packaging market is characterized by a moderately concentrated landscape, with key players like Infineon Technologies AG, TDK Corporation, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, and Intel Corporation holding significant market share. However, the market exhibits a high degree of innovation, driven by advancements in materials science and packaging technologies. Regulatory frameworks, particularly those related to environmental compliance and product safety, are increasingly influencing market dynamics. Substitute products, such as alternative packaging solutions, pose a moderate competitive threat. End-user trends, especially the growing demand for miniaturization and higher performance in consumer electronics and automotive applications, are major growth drivers. M&A activity has been moderate in recent years, with approximately xx deals recorded in the past five years, signifying a potential for increased consolidation in the future.
- Market Share: Infineon Technologies AG holds an estimated xx% market share, followed by TDK Corporation at xx%.
- M&A Activity: The average annual number of M&A deals within the last five years is estimated to be xx.
- Innovation Ecosystem: Strong R&D investments and collaborations between packaging companies and semiconductor manufacturers are shaping innovation.
- Regulatory Landscape: Compliance with RoHS and REACH directives is crucial for market players.
Embedded Die Packaging Market Industry Insights & Trends
The global Embedded Die Packaging market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient electronic devices across diverse sectors. The market size reached approximately $xx Million in 2024 and is projected to reach $xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period. This growth is fueled by several key factors: the proliferation of smartphones and other consumer electronics, the expansion of the automotive electronics market (including electric vehicles), and the increasing adoption of embedded systems in industrial and healthcare applications. Technological advancements, such as the development of advanced packaging materials and techniques like 3D stacking, are further driving market expansion. Evolving consumer preferences for sophisticated and compact devices are also fueling demand.

Key Markets & Segments Leading Embedded Die Packaging Market
The Asia-Pacific region dominates the Embedded Die Packaging market, driven by strong economic growth, substantial investments in electronics manufacturing, and a large consumer base. Within this region, China and other Southeast Asian nations are key growth contributors.
Dominant Segments:
- Platform: Die in Rigid Board currently holds the largest market share due to its established use in various applications and cost-effectiveness. Growth drivers include rising demand for high-density packaging and improved thermal management. Die in Flexible Board is experiencing increased adoption, owing to its flexibility and suitability for wearable devices and flexible electronics. IC Package Substrate is projected to demonstrate significant growth as it caters to the high performance demands of advanced applications.
- End User: The consumer electronics segment holds a significant market share, driven by the widespread adoption of smartphones, wearables, and other consumer devices. The automotive segment is a significant growth area due to the increasing sophistication of vehicle electronics and autonomous driving technologies. The IT and Telecommunications segments demonstrate steady demand fueled by data center expansion and the growth of 5G infrastructure. The healthcare sector exhibits growing adoption for medical implants and diagnostic equipment, driving segment-specific growth.
Regional Drivers:
- Asia-Pacific: High economic growth, robust electronics manufacturing, and significant consumer demand.
- North America: Advancements in automotive and healthcare technology, coupled with high disposable income.
- Europe: Adoption of advanced technologies in diverse industries, and focus on sustainable packaging.
Embedded Die Packaging Market Product Developments
Recent product innovations have focused on enhancing miniaturization, thermal management, and integration capabilities. Advancements in materials science, such as the use of high-performance polymers and advanced substrates, have enabled the development of smaller and more efficient packages. This has allowed manufacturers to achieve increased density and improved performance in electronic devices. These innovations are enhancing the competitive advantage of leading players.
Challenges in the Embedded Die Packaging Market Market
The Embedded Die Packaging market faces several challenges. Supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical instability and natural disasters can lead to material shortages and increased costs. Intense competition from established players and emerging entrants puts pressure on pricing and profit margins. Stringent regulatory requirements related to environmental compliance and safety compliance add to the operational costs. These factors can hinder market growth and profitability. For example, the chip shortage of 2020-2022 resulted in a xx% reduction in production for certain embedded die packaging solutions.
Forces Driving Embedded Die Packaging Market Growth
Several factors drive Embedded Die Packaging market growth. Technological advancements, such as the development of advanced packaging technologies (e.g., system-in-package, 3D integration), are enabling higher integration density and improved device performance. Growing demand for miniaturized electronic devices in consumer electronics, automotive, and healthcare sectors fuels market expansion. Government initiatives promoting the development of advanced electronics also stimulate market growth.
Long-Term Growth Catalysts in Embedded Die Packaging Market
Long-term growth is supported by continuous innovation in packaging materials and processes. Strategic collaborations between packaging companies and semiconductor manufacturers are fostering innovation and speeding up the development and adoption of new technologies. Expansion into new markets, particularly in emerging economies, presents significant growth opportunities. These combined factors create a positive outlook for the long-term growth of the Embedded Die Packaging market.
Emerging Opportunities in Embedded Die Packaging Market
The market presents significant opportunities for growth. The increasing adoption of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving technologies in the automotive sector is creating a substantial demand for high-performance embedded die packaging. Growth in the Internet of Things (IoT) and wearable technology markets will propel further demand for miniaturized and energy-efficient packaging solutions. New materials, such as advanced polymers and composites, offer opportunities for enhancing thermal management and reducing weight.
Leading Players in the Embedded Die Packaging Market Sector
- Infineon Technologies AG
- TDK Corporation
- Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company
- Schweizer Electronic AG
- Fujikura Ltd
- ASE Group
- Amkor Technology
- Shinko Electric Industries Co Ltd
- Microsemi Corporation
- AT&S Company
- Intel Corporation
Key Milestones in Embedded Die Packaging Market Industry
- 2020: Introduction of a new high-density packaging technology by TDK Corporation.
- 2021: Strategic partnership between Infineon Technologies AG and ASE Group to develop advanced packaging solutions.
- 2022: Acquisition of a smaller packaging company by Amkor Technology, expanding their market reach.
- 2023: Launch of a new eco-friendly packaging material by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company.
- 2024: Intel announces advancements in their embedded die packaging capabilities.
Strategic Outlook for Embedded Die Packaging Market Market
The Embedded Die Packaging market is poised for continued robust growth over the next decade. Strategic investments in R&D, focused on developing advanced materials and processes, are crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. Expanding into high-growth market segments, such as automotive electronics and IoT, will be key for capturing market share. Collaboration and strategic partnerships will be vital for developing innovative solutions and accelerating market penetration. The long-term prospects for the Embedded Die Packaging market remain highly positive.
Embedded Die Packaging Market Segmentation
-
1. Platform
- 1.1. Die in Rigid Board
- 1.2. Die in Flexible Board
- 1.3. IC Package Substrate
-
2. End User
- 2.1. Consumer Electronics
- 2.2. IT and Telecommunications
- 2.3. Automotive
- 2.4. Healthcare
- 2.5. Other End Users
Embedded Die Packaging Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Americas
- 2. Europe and MEA
- 3. Asia Pacific

Embedded Die Packaging 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 22.40% 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. ; Growing Miniaturization of Devices; Improved Electrical and Thermal Performance
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1 ; Difficulty to Inspect
- 3.3.2 Test and Rework
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Die in Flexible Board Expected to Hold Significant Market Share
- 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 Embedded Die Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Platform
- 5.1.1. Die in Rigid Board
- 5.1.2. Die in Flexible Board
- 5.1.3. IC Package Substrate
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 5.2.1. Consumer Electronics
- 5.2.2. IT and Telecommunications
- 5.2.3. Automotive
- 5.2.4. Healthcare
- 5.2.5. Other End Users
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Americas
- 5.3.2. Europe and MEA
- 5.3.3. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Platform
- 6. Americas Embedded Die Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Platform
- 6.1.1. Die in Rigid Board
- 6.1.2. Die in Flexible Board
- 6.1.3. IC Package Substrate
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 6.2.1. Consumer Electronics
- 6.2.2. IT and Telecommunications
- 6.2.3. Automotive
- 6.2.4. Healthcare
- 6.2.5. Other End Users
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Platform
- 7. Europe and MEA Embedded Die Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Platform
- 7.1.1. Die in Rigid Board
- 7.1.2. Die in Flexible Board
- 7.1.3. IC Package Substrate
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 7.2.1. Consumer Electronics
- 7.2.2. IT and Telecommunications
- 7.2.3. Automotive
- 7.2.4. Healthcare
- 7.2.5. Other End Users
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Platform
- 8. Asia Pacific Embedded Die Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Platform
- 8.1.1. Die in Rigid Board
- 8.1.2. Die in Flexible Board
- 8.1.3. IC Package Substrate
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 8.2.1. Consumer Electronics
- 8.2.2. IT and Telecommunications
- 8.2.3. Automotive
- 8.2.4. Healthcare
- 8.2.5. Other End Users
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Platform
- 9. Americas Embedded Die Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 9.1.1.
- 10. Europe and MEA Embedded Die Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 10.1.1.
- 11. Asia Pacific Embedded Die Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 11.1.1.
- 12. Competitive Analysis
- 12.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 12.2. Company Profiles
- 12.2.1 Infineon Technologies AG
- 12.2.1.1. Overview
- 12.2.1.2. Products
- 12.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.2 TDK Corporation*List Not Exhaustive
- 12.2.2.1. Overview
- 12.2.2.2. Products
- 12.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.3 Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company
- 12.2.3.1. Overview
- 12.2.3.2. Products
- 12.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.4 Schweizer Electronic AG
- 12.2.4.1. Overview
- 12.2.4.2. Products
- 12.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.5 Fujikura Ltd
- 12.2.5.1. Overview
- 12.2.5.2. Products
- 12.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.6 ASE Group
- 12.2.6.1. Overview
- 12.2.6.2. Products
- 12.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.7 Amkor Technology
- 12.2.7.1. Overview
- 12.2.7.2. Products
- 12.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.8 Shinko Electric Industries Co Ltd
- 12.2.8.1. Overview
- 12.2.8.2. Products
- 12.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.9 Microsemi Corporation
- 12.2.9.1. Overview
- 12.2.9.2. Products
- 12.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.10 AT&S Company
- 12.2.10.1. Overview
- 12.2.10.2. Products
- 12.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.11 Intel Corporation
- 12.2.11.1. Overview
- 12.2.11.2. Products
- 12.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.1 Infineon Technologies AG
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Americas Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: Americas Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: Europe and MEA Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: Europe and MEA Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: Asia Pacific Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: Asia Pacific Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: Americas Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Platform 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: Americas Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Platform 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: Americas Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: Americas Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: Americas Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: Americas Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: Europe and MEA Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Platform 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: Europe and MEA Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Platform 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Europe and MEA Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Europe and MEA Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Europe and MEA Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Europe and MEA Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Asia Pacific Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Platform 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Asia Pacific Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Platform 2024 & 2032
- Figure 22: Asia Pacific Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 23: Asia Pacific Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 24: Asia Pacific Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 25: Asia Pacific Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Platform 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Platform 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Platform 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Platform 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Global Embedded Die Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Embedded Die Packaging Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 22.40%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Embedded Die Packaging Market?
Key companies in the market include Infineon Technologies AG, TDK Corporation*List Not Exhaustive, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Schweizer Electronic AG, Fujikura Ltd, ASE Group, Amkor Technology, Shinko Electric Industries Co Ltd, Microsemi Corporation, AT&S Company, Intel Corporation.
3. What are the main segments of the Embedded Die Packaging Market?
The market segments include Platform, End User.
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?
; Growing Miniaturization of Devices; Improved Electrical and Thermal Performance.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Die in Flexible Board Expected to Hold Significant Market Share.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
; Difficulty to Inspect. Test and Rework.
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 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 "Embedded Die Packaging 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 Embedded Die Packaging 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 Embedded Die Packaging Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Embedded Die Packaging 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