Key Insights
The North American electronic test and measurement (T&M) market is poised for robust expansion, projected to reach approximately $3,860 million by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.20%. This dynamic growth is fueled by an escalating demand for advanced semiconductors, the rapid evolution of communication technologies, and the increasing complexity of electronic devices across various sectors. Key drivers include the burgeoning semiconductor industry, which necessitates sophisticated testing solutions for integrated circuits, and the widespread adoption of 5G technology, demanding high-performance RF and digital test equipment. The aerospace and defense sector's continuous need for reliable and accurate testing of critical systems, coupled with the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market and its stringent safety and performance requirements, further bolsters market expansion. Emerging trends such as the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into T&M instruments for enhanced efficiency and predictive capabilities, along with the growing preference for compact and portable testing solutions, are shaping the market landscape.
North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Market Size (In Billion)
Despite this positive outlook, certain restraints could influence the market's trajectory. The high initial investment costs associated with cutting-edge T&M equipment and the ongoing need for skilled professionals to operate and maintain these complex systems present significant hurdles. However, the continuous innovation in areas like advanced signal integrity testing, power electronics characterization, and environmental stress testing is expected to mitigate these challenges. Segments like Semiconductor Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) and Radio Frequency (RF) Test Equipment are anticipated to witness substantial growth due to their critical role in the development and manufacturing of next-generation electronic components and communication systems. Geographically, North America, driven by the United States' leadership in technological innovation and significant investments in R&D, is expected to maintain its dominant position in the global T&M market.
North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Company Market Share
This in-depth report provides a dynamic and SEO-optimized analysis of the North America Electronic Test and Measurement (T&M) Market, leveraging high-volume keywords for enhanced search rankings and engaging industry professionals. Covering the historical period from 2019 to 2024, the base year of 2025, and a robust forecast period from 2025 to 2033, this report offers unparalleled insights into market dynamics, trends, and opportunities. The estimated market size in 2025 is projected to be USD 12,500 Million, with a projected CAGR of 8.5% throughout the forecast period, reaching an impressive USD 23,000 Million by 2033.
North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Market Structure & Competitive Landscape
The North America Electronic Test and Measurement (T&M) market is characterized by a moderate to high level of concentration, with leading players like Keysight Technologies, Inc., Tektronix Inc., and Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co KG dominating significant market shares. Innovation is a key differentiator, driven by continuous research and development in areas such as 5G/6G testing, automotive electronics, and IoT device validation. Regulatory impacts, particularly concerning electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and safety standards, play a crucial role in shaping product development and market entry strategies. While direct product substitutes are limited, the evolving complexity of electronic devices necessitates sophisticated T&M solutions, thereby fostering demand. End-user segmentation reveals strong demand from the semiconductors and computing and communications sectors, followed by aerospace and defense and automotive applications. Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) activity, while present, is strategically focused on acquiring niche technologies or expanding geographic reach. The market sees an average of 3-5 significant M&A deals annually, primarily driven by consolidation and the pursuit of synergistic capabilities. The competitive intensity is high, pushing companies to invest heavily in R&D and customer support.
North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Market Trends & Opportunities
The North America Electronic Test and Measurement (T&M) market is experiencing robust growth, projected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.5% from an estimated USD 12,500 Million in 2025 to USD 23,000 Million by 2033. This expansion is fueled by the escalating demand for advanced testing solutions across a multitude of burgeoning industries. Key technological shifts include the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in automated test equipment (ATE), enabling faster diagnostics and predictive maintenance. The proliferation of the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, with its vast array of connected devices, is creating unprecedented opportunities for specialized T&M equipment, particularly in areas like wireless connectivity testing and sensor validation. Consumer preferences are increasingly leaning towards higher performance, miniaturization, and energy efficiency in electronic devices, thereby driving the need for more sophisticated and accurate testing methodologies. The ongoing evolution of wireless communication standards, from 5G to the forthcoming 6G, necessitates continuous upgrades in RF test equipment, creating a sustained demand for cutting-edge solutions. Furthermore, the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market is a significant growth catalyst, requiring extensive testing of battery management systems, power electronics, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The competitive dynamics are characterized by intense innovation, with companies vying to offer integrated solutions that address the full spectrum of testing needs, from component-level validation to system-level performance evaluation. Opportunities also lie in the development of cloud-based T&M platforms and virtual instrumentations, offering greater flexibility and scalability to users. The increasing emphasis on cybersecurity within electronic systems also presents a growing segment for specialized testing solutions.
Dominant Markets & Segments in North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market
The Communications and Semiconductors and Computing segments stand out as the dominant forces within the North America Electronic Test and Measurement (T&M) Market, collectively accounting for an estimated 65% of the total market revenue in 2025. This dominance is propelled by continuous technological advancements and substantial investments in research and development within these sectors.
- Communications: This segment's growth is intrinsically linked to the rapid evolution and deployment of wireless technologies. The rollout of 5G infrastructure, the development of next-generation 6G technologies, and the ever-increasing demand for faster data transmission rates are key growth drivers. The proliferation of smart devices and the expansion of the IoT landscape further bolster the need for comprehensive RF test equipment, signal generators, and spectrum analyzers. The launch of new communication protocols and the need for interoperability testing between diverse devices create a sustained demand for advanced testing solutions.
- Semiconductors and Computing: The continuous miniaturization and increasing complexity of integrated circuits (ICs) for high-performance computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and data centers necessitate sophisticated semiconductor automatic test equipment (ATE). The demand for faster, more efficient, and reliable processors, memory chips, and other semiconductor components fuels innovation and investment in advanced testing solutions. The growth of the cloud computing sector and the increasing power of GPUs also contribute significantly to this segment.
Other significant segments contributing to market growth include:
- Aerospace and Defense: This sector relies heavily on highly reliable and robust T&M equipment for testing avionics, radar systems, communication equipment, and electronic warfare systems. Stringent regulatory requirements and the continuous need for national security advancements drive the demand for high-precision and specialized T&M solutions.
- Consumer Electronics: While often characterized by higher volume and lower unit cost, the consumer electronics segment still represents a substantial market for T&M. Testing for compliance with safety and performance standards, ensuring optimal functionality of features like wireless connectivity and display quality, and rapid product development cycles contribute to the demand for efficient and cost-effective T&M solutions.
- Electric Vehicles (EVs): The burgeoning EV market is a rapidly growing application area for T&M. This includes rigorous testing of battery management systems (BMS), power inverters, electric motors, charging infrastructure, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The increasing complexity and safety demands of EVs are creating significant opportunities for specialized T&M solutions.
North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Product Analysis
The North America Electronic Test and Measurement (T&M) market is witnessing a surge in product innovation, driven by advancements in digital signal processing, miniaturization, and the integration of AI/ML capabilities. Key product innovations include oscilloscopes with enhanced bandwidth and sampling rates, sophisticated RF analyzers capable of testing emerging wireless standards like 5G Advanced and Wi-Fi 7, and automated test equipment (ATE) platforms designed for high-volume semiconductor manufacturing. Applications are diversifying to include critical testing for electric vehicles, the expansive IoT ecosystem, and advanced aerospace and defense systems. Competitive advantages are increasingly derived from solutions offering higher accuracy, faster test times, greater channel density, and integrated software for data analysis and reporting. The focus is on providing comprehensive, scalable, and user-friendly T&M solutions that address the evolving complexities of electronic device development and manufacturing.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market
Key Drivers: The North America Electronic Test and Measurement (T&M) market is propelled by several critical factors. The relentless pace of technological innovation, particularly in 5G/6G communications, AI, IoT, and electric vehicles, directly fuels the demand for advanced T&M solutions. Government initiatives and investments in critical infrastructure and research and development, especially in sectors like aerospace and defense and semiconductor manufacturing, provide significant impetus. The increasing complexity and miniaturization of electronic devices necessitate more sophisticated testing capabilities to ensure performance, reliability, and compliance. The growing emphasis on product quality and safety standards across all industries further drives the adoption of precise T&M equipment.
Barriers & Challenges: Despite the strong growth trajectory, the market faces notable challenges. The high cost of advanced T&M equipment can be a significant barrier for smaller enterprises and emerging markets. Supply chain disruptions, as witnessed in recent years, can impact the availability of critical components and lead to extended lead times. Intense competition among established players and the emergence of new entrants can exert downward pressure on pricing. Furthermore, the rapid evolution of technology requires continuous investment in R&D and skilled personnel, posing a challenge for companies to keep pace. Evolving regulatory landscapes in different countries can also create compliance complexities.
Growth Drivers in the North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Market
The growth of the North America Electronic Test and Measurement (T&M) market is primarily driven by the accelerating adoption of 5G and the anticipation of 6G technologies, necessitating advanced RF test equipment for characterization and validation. The burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market is a significant catalyst, demanding comprehensive testing of battery systems, power electronics, and autonomous driving technologies. Furthermore, the pervasive expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem requires specialized testing for connectivity, security, and interoperability across a wide array of devices. Government investments in critical sectors like aerospace and defense and the ongoing advancements in semiconductor technology also contribute substantially to market expansion.
Challenges Impacting North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Growth
Several factors present challenges to the North America Electronic Test and Measurement (T&M) market's growth. The high capital investment required for cutting-edge T&M equipment can be a barrier for smaller and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Persistent global supply chain volatility can lead to component shortages and increased lead times, impacting production and delivery schedules. The rapid pace of technological evolution demands continuous innovation and substantial R&D spending, creating pressure on profit margins and requiring a highly skilled workforce. Furthermore, the increasing complexity of regulatory compliance across different regions can create hurdles for market entry and product certification.
Key Players Shaping the North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Market
- Tektronix Inc.
- Keysight Technologies
- Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co KG
- National Instruments Corporation
- Fluke Corporation
- Teledyne LeCroy Inc
- Yokogawa Test & Measurement Corporation
- Teradyne Inc
- Chauvin Arnoux Group
- Advantest Corporation
Significant North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Industry Milestones
- September 2024: UL Solutions has appointed Keysight Technologies, Inc. as the certification test partner for Thunderbolt 5 products. This appointment solidifies UL Solutions' position as an Intel-authorized certification lab for Thunderbolt 5 technologies. Thunderbolt 5 significantly enhances wired connectivity, boasting data transfer speeds of up to 120 Gbps — about thrice the speed of its predecessor, Thunderbolt 4. This advanced capability supports display technologies and offers improved power delivery, enabling faster transfers of large files, including ultra-high-definition videos and intricate 3D models.
- June 2024: ETS-Lindgren, one of the global leaders in over-the-air (OTA) performance testing, has teamed up with Anritsu, a pioneer in telecommunications testing technology, to announce their joint test support for devices utilizing the Narrow Band NTN (NB-NTN) protocol. This collaboration merges the expertise of both companies, delivering a holistic solution for the testing and validating of NB-NTN devices. The partnership harnesses the capabilities of Anritsu’s MT8821C Radio Communication Analyzer, renowned for its RF verification and functional testing of mobile devices, in conjunction with ETS-Lindgren’s EMQuest Antenna Measurement Software and Wireless Test Solutions.
Future Outlook for North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Market
The future outlook for the North America Electronic Test and Measurement (T&M) market remains exceptionally bright, driven by continued technological advancements and increasing demand across diverse sectors. Strategic opportunities lie in the development of AI-integrated T&M solutions that offer predictive analytics and automated fault detection, the expansion of cloud-based testing platforms for enhanced accessibility and scalability, and the creation of specialized test solutions for emerging technologies like quantum computing and advanced robotics. The sustained growth of the electric vehicle and advanced communications markets will continue to be significant catalysts, ensuring robust demand for sophisticated and accurate testing capabilities. The market is poised for sustained innovation and expansion through the forecast period.
North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Semiconductor Automatic Test Equipment (ATE)
- 1.2. Radio Frequency (RF) Test Equipment
- 1.3. Digital Test Equipment
- 1.4. Electrical and Environmental Test
- 1.5. Data Acquisition (DAQ)
-
2. Application
- 2.1. Communications
- 2.2. Semiconductors and Computing
- 2.3. Aerospace and Defense
- 2.4. Consumer Electronics
- 2.5. Electric Vehicles
North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. North America
- 1.1. United States
- 1.2. Canada
- 1.3. Mexico
North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Regional Market Share
Geographic Coverage of North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market
North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market 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 4.20% from 2020-2034 |
| 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. Technological Advancements Leading to the need for Test and Measurement Equipment; Emerging Trend of Electric and Hybrid Vehicle
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Technological Advancements Leading to the need for Test and Measurement Equipment; Emerging Trend of Electric and Hybrid Vehicle
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Rising Electrification in Automotive Sector is Driving the Demand
- 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. North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Semiconductor Automatic Test Equipment (ATE)
- 5.1.2. Radio Frequency (RF) Test Equipment
- 5.1.3. Digital Test Equipment
- 5.1.4. Electrical and Environmental Test
- 5.1.5. Data Acquisition (DAQ)
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.2.1. Communications
- 5.2.2. Semiconductors and Computing
- 5.2.3. Aerospace and Defense
- 5.2.4. Consumer Electronics
- 5.2.5. Electric Vehicles
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. North America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. Competitive Analysis
- 6.1. Market Share Analysis 2025
- 6.2. Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 Tektronix Inc
- 6.2.1.1. Overview
- 6.2.1.2. Products
- 6.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.2 Keysight Technologies
- 6.2.2.1. Overview
- 6.2.2.2. Products
- 6.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.3 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co KG
- 6.2.3.1. Overview
- 6.2.3.2. Products
- 6.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.4 National Instruments Corporation
- 6.2.4.1. Overview
- 6.2.4.2. Products
- 6.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.5 Fluke Corporation
- 6.2.5.1. Overview
- 6.2.5.2. Products
- 6.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.6 Teledyne LeCroy Inc
- 6.2.6.1. Overview
- 6.2.6.2. Products
- 6.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.7 Yokogawa Test & Measurement Corporation
- 6.2.7.1. Overview
- 6.2.7.2. Products
- 6.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.8 Teradyne Inc
- 6.2.8.1. Overview
- 6.2.8.2. Products
- 6.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.9 Chauvin Arnoux Group
- 6.2.9.1. Overview
- 6.2.9.2. Products
- 6.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.10 Advantest Corporation*List Not Exhaustive
- 6.2.10.1. Overview
- 6.2.10.2. Products
- 6.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.1 Tektronix Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Share (%) by Company 2025
List of Tables
- Table 1: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Volume Billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: United States North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: United States North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: Canada North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 16: Canada North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 17: Mexico North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 18: Mexico North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 4.20%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market?
Key companies in the market include Tektronix Inc, Keysight Technologies, Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co KG, National Instruments Corporation, Fluke Corporation, Teledyne LeCroy Inc, Yokogawa Test & Measurement Corporation, Teradyne Inc, Chauvin Arnoux Group, Advantest Corporation*List Not Exhaustive.
3. What are the main segments of the North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market?
The market segments include Type, Application.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 3.86 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Technological Advancements Leading to the need for Test and Measurement Equipment; Emerging Trend of Electric and Hybrid Vehicle.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Rising Electrification in Automotive Sector is Driving the Demand.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Technological Advancements Leading to the need for Test and Measurement Equipment; Emerging Trend of Electric and Hybrid Vehicle.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
September 2024: UL Solutions has appointed Keysight Technologies, Inc. as the certification test partner for Thunderbolt 5 products. This appointment solidifies UL Solutions' position as an Intel-authorized certification lab for Thunderbolt 5 technologies. Thunderbolt 5 significantly enhances wired connectivity, boasting data transfer speeds of up to 120 Gbps — about thrice the speed of its predecessor, Thunderbolt 4. This advanced capability supports display technologies and offers improved power delivery, enabling faster transfers of large files, including ultra-high-definition videos and intricate 3D models.June 2024: ETS-Lindgren, one of the global leaders in over-the-air (OTA) performance testing, has teamed up with Anritsu, a pioneer in telecommunications testing technology, to announce their joint test support for devices utilizing the Narrow Band NTN (NB-NTN) protocol. This collaboration merges the expertise of both companies, delivering a holistic solution for the testing and validating of NB-NTN devices. The partnership harnesses the capabilities of Anritsu’s MT8821C Radio Communication Analyzer, renowned for its RF verification and functional testing of mobile devices, in conjunction with ETS-Lindgren’s EMQuest Antenna Measurement Software and Wireless Test Solutions.
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 4950, and USD 6800 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 and volume, measured in Billion.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "North America Electronic Test And Measurement 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 North America Electronic Test And Measurement 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 North America Electronic Test And Measurement Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the North America Electronic Test And Measurement 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